FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
St. James Academy Band Director and Orchestra Teacher, Dr. Helen Harrelson Blue KC Sporting Samaritan Award
Lenexa, KS – St. James Academy is excited to announce that Dr. Helen Harrelson, our esteemed band director, and orchestra teacher, has been nominated and chosen as a Blue Sporting KC Samaritan. Recognized for her exceptional work in establishing and developing the St. James Academy Band Program, Dr. Harrelson has truly inspired and transformed the lives of countless students, making this recognition well-deserved.
Under Dr. Harrelson’s leadership, the band program has thrived, growing from a small group of musicians into a flourishing program with multiple ensembles. These talented musicians regularly showcase their abilities at community events and competitions, receiving numerous awards and accolades along the way. Three of the program’s top ensembles recently had the honor of performing at the prestigious Kansas Music Educators Association In-Service Workshop, a testament to Dr. Harrelson’s commitment to nurturing musical talent.
In addition to her role at St. James Academy, Dr. Harrelson’s influence extends beyond the school grounds. She is the founder of the Fountain City Youth Brass Academy, an organization dedicated to expanding the reach of brass banding in America. The academy’s groups have gained national and international recognition, consistently achieving top honors in competitions and performances. Dr. Harrelson’s passion for brass banding stems from her personal experiences performing with renowned brass bands in England.
Furthermore, Dr. Harrelson’s dedication as a mother to her nine-year-old son, Liam, is commendable. Despite her busy schedule, she ensures that Liam has the opportunity to pursue his passions while never missing one of his soccer games.
As a selected Sporting KC Samaritan, Dr. Harrelson will be honored during the pregame festivities at the August 26th Sporting KC match against San Jose, held at Children’s Mercy Park. She will partake in an unforgettable on-field experience and a behind-the-scenes VIP tour alongside her guests. Additionally, she will receive four tickets to the match, a parking pass, and a customized jersey. There is even a possibility of a former Sporting KC player visiting St. James Academy, adding to the excitement of this prestigious honor.
The Blue KC Sporting Samaritan program, presented in collaboration with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas City and Sporting Kansas City, is designed to celebrate exceptional students and teachers who contribute to the betterment of the Kansas City community. Nominations for Samaritans are submitted by Sporting KC fans, friends, and colleagues, with selected individuals receiving this special recognition during home matches.
We extend an invitation to all to join us in congratulating Dr. Helen Harrelson on this remarkable achievement. Her unwavering dedication to fostering musical talent and her commitment to her students make her a true inspiration. St. James Academy is immensely proud to have her as our band director and is grateful for the positive impact she continues to make within our community.
For more information about the Blue KC Sporting Samaritans program, please visit the following link: https://www.sportingkc.com/blue-kc
