Distinguished Person of Honor

(March 8, 1947 —         )

Mrs. O, as she was known by thousands of music students in her 32 years teaching in the Olathe Public Schools, shared her love of music with all ages. She was also an adjunct choral professor at MidAmerica Nazarene University for four years and formed the Olathe Intergenerational Chorus to involve senior citizens. Texanna took groups to perform at the White House Conference on Aging; St. Petersburg, Russia; and National Conference on Aging, among other prestigious locations. The award-winning performances were highlights of her career, but not outdone by the praise from her students. A former Santa Fe Trail Middle School student wrote: “Her enthusiasm spread over the entire class. . . music became an important part of my life.” An Olathe elementary school principal and former student said: “Texanna is one of those educators who expect excellence. . . She makes every student feel that she is there just for them.” In retirement Texanna conducted choirs at area retirement communities and a women’s center, and served on the Olathe Public Schools Retired Employees Association. She was named to the Kansas Music Educators Association Hall of Fame in 2016.