TITLE: Recognizing Randell Keith Resneder, founder and executive director of Disability Awareness Programs of Texas.

SUMMARY: Recognizing Randell Keith Resneder, founder and executive director of Disability Awareness Programs of Texas.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Randell Keith Resneder, founder and executive director of Disability Awareness Programs of Texas, on the occasion of Disability Awareness Week, which is being observed April 10 through 16, 2011; and WHEREAS, The work of Disability Awareness Programs of Texas has its origin in the work Mr. Resneder began when he was a high school student in California in 1988; a newly transplanted Texan with cerebral palsy, he proposed an awareness week to the school's student body; his proposal was accepted, and the first disability awareness week was held in May of 1989; and WHEREAS, Disability Awareness Programs of Texas continues to grow as a nonprofit organization and assists other individuals and groups with referral services; its mission is to advance the understanding of people with different abilities by establishing partnerships with other agencies and acting as an educational resource to the community; and WHEREAS, Disability Awareness Week is observed by the organization each year in spring with a number of activities, including disability simulations, obstacle courses, resources for parents, curriculum for schools, and special activities for children with disabilities; and WHEREAS, Mr. Resneder earned a bachelor of science degree from the University of North Texas and a master of education degree in instructional technology from Texas Tech University; he has served as a backup pastor, a university instructor, and a computer consultant and webmaster; in all his activities, he has truly fostered awareness of the abilities of persons with disabilities; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd Legislature, hereby commend Randell Keith Resneder for his dedication and commitment to helping others and extend to him best wishes in all his future endeavors; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. Duncan President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 5, 2011.