By: Jordan Allen
Retired U.S. Army Major, Orlando L. Rummans ‘95 has been supporting his alma mater for nearly 30 years. With a strong dedication to the success of Roadrunners, he has made significant contributions to UTSA’s Roadrunner Athletics Fund, Bold Champions campaign, and provides an annual scholarship to student-athletes through the Alumni Association.
After spending a year on the track team at the University of Central Missouri, Orlando joined the U.S. military, serving with distinction in the U.S. Army from 1987 to 1991. He went on to pursue his bachelor’s degree from UTSA at the age of 23. While studying education with a concentration in biology through UTSA’s College of Education and Human Development, he immersed himself in university life, participating in the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC), the UTSA Ambassador Program, and the UTSA chapter of Lambda Chi Alpha. Upon graduation, Orlando was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps and completed two combat tours in Iraq. After 22 years of service, Orlando retired as an Army major and began his career as an educator.
Now, a 6th grade science teacher and coach for both the girls’ and boys’ track teams at Joel C. Harris Middle School, Orlando remains a strong supporter of UTSA. He is a season ticket holder for Roadrunner football, volleyball, and men’s and women’s basketball and soccer. In 2012, Orlando joined the UTSA Alumni Association Board of Directors where he learned about the Bold Champions campaign and became instrumental in the early planning stages of the Roadrunner Athletics Center of Excellence (RACE), resulting in a tutoring room being named in his honor. Orlando also established a $5,000 annual scholarship for active Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity members, prioritizing athletes and cheerleaders.
As a vital mentor and advocate for the student-athletes, Orlando’s influence goes beyond financial contributions. Each year, he hosts each team he supports for dinner before their seasons begin, creating an environment where athletes can interact with members of Lambda Chi Alpha, fostering a sense of community and respect.
"Our athletes are just really incredible young people. As a former track athlete at the University of Central Missouri, I understand first-hand the dedication it takes to succeed as an athlete in college and the pressure they are under," said Orlando. “I have spoken to several Roadrunners about their experiences pre-and post- RACE, and it has made a world of difference to both their athletic and academic experiences. I am grateful that I can make a difference.”
As he prepares to move into high school education this coming fall, Orlando hopes to continue inspiring and shaping the futures of UTSA students, both in and out of the classroom.