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On the Music Stand |
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For more information about the Veta L. Morriel Arts and Leadership Academy (VLMALA) and its board members, please visit: |
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Though it may not be recognized, there are moments when someone touches our lives in a profound or life changing way. Those moments help shape who we are and who we become. Often it is a parent that provides many of these moments. For Ronald Planks, it was his mother, Veta L. Morriel, who encouraged him to pursue music which changed his life.
Mr. Planks grew to understand the positive force his mother provided for him as a child and developed a desire to share that positive force with others. From that desire, Strings of Color was formed to provide a positive learning environment and an opportunity to develop musical talents. Ronald along with the other board members have dedicated their time and effort to offer life changing experiences and opportunities to the Strings of Color members. It's all about the members, giving them the encouragement to pursue their dreams and change their lives. |
 Ronald L. Planks
Founder & Director
Ronald Planks has been the director of orchestral studies at Williams High School in Plano, TX since 1997. He received his Bachelor of Music Education and Masters of Music degrees from Sam Houston State University where he studied conducting with Dr. Carol Smith. While at Sam Houston, he studied violin and viola with Dr. James Gardner and Joy Plesner respectively. Prior to his present position, Mr. Planks taught in the Bryan and Spring Branch Independent School Districts. His orchestras have consistently won sweepstakes awards at the UIL Concert & Sight-reading Contests. Mr. Planks has also had several students selected in one or more region and all-state orchestras. Mr. Planks resides in Plano, Texas and performs extensively as a freelance musician and as a member of the North Dallas based, "Appassionato String Quartet". |
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 Evette Williams
Founding Member & VLMALA Board Member
Work experiences after serving in the military include customer service, training manager, and network analyst manager. Through volunteering opportunities Evette developed a relationship with Ronald Planks. Seeking opportunities to grow professionally she obtained certifications in Electronic Communications Technology from Collin County Community College, a Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) and Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCSE) on Microsoft Windows Server™ 2003 through self study. She also holds a Bachelor's of Science in Management with emphasis in human resources management (HRM) with honors from the University of Phoenix. Evette has a proven track record of obtaining results through planning, organizing, and leading. She provides her experience and knowledge to manage the operations of the Strings of Color organization. Evette resides in Plano and works full-time for a Fortune 500 Telecommunications Company as a project manager and is currently working to obtain her Six Sigma Black Belt certification. In her personal time she enjoys dedicating to the family, friends, volunteering with youth orchestra and church ministry. |
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 Travis Johnson
Founding Member & VLMALA Board Member
Having managed several extensive product launches while working for various corporate businesses, Travis brings experience and expertise to the Strings of Color organization. After the stock market crash of 2000, Travis left the corporate world to begin a career in the public education system. During this time, he developed a relationship with Ronald Planks and immediately offered to contribute his talents. He holds a Bachelor degree in Web Development from Baker College where he graduated with honors and has been instrumental in the image development of the Strings of Color and the Veta L. Morriel Arts and Leadership Academy. Travis currently works for the Allen Independent School District. In his free time, he enjoys playing golf, traveling, and spending time with his friends and family. |
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