This Georgia Peach’s southern charm and steel backbone have accompanied her on many adventures in life: from childhood in Valdosta to adolescence in Palm Beach to Evanston, Illinois where she earned a B.A. and M.A. from the prestigious music school at Northwestern University. While in Illinois, Kappy met and married Al Muenzer, a renowned violinist. Kappy and Al came to Houston in 1966 when the Houston Symphony recruited him to be its Associate Concertmaster. Once established here, Kappy opened a piano teaching studio.
In the early 70’s her other passion became her primary interest. Kappy grew up with cats and dogs, two king snakes, a rescued raccoon and her beloved horse, “King.” She says, “I can’t imagine living without my four-footed companions. They give me fun and laughter, exercise, security, understanding and, most importantly, boundless and unconditional love.”
In 1974, she became involved with Citizens for Animal Protection (CAP), she co-founded CAP’s shelter in 1981 and has been the coordinator of the Celebrity Paws Gala since its inception in 1986. Kappy’s commitment to animals led to decades of service on the boards of the Texas Humane Legislation Network and the Texas Federation of Humane Societies. She currently is a director for the Texas Federation of Animal Care Societies and was recently appointed to the Animal Shelter Advisory Committee for Houston’s shelter, the Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care (BARC).
In her 35 years with CAP, including terms as President and Executive Director, she has toiled to promote spay/neuter programs and worked tirelessly to save the lives of homeless animals through adoptions. Now with the backing of her board, Kappy has undertaken another challenge—building CAP a permanent home. The campaign, “Building a Brighter Future for Pets and People” will result in more adoptions, increased services and educating more people about pet responsibility. Kappy knows the challenges of the current economy, and she sees it each day as animals are left at CAP’s door. Her diligence in creating the CAP home is fueled by confidence that thousands of caring people in our community will help to make the dream a reality.
Married for 45 years, Kappy and Al enjoy good music, traveling and spending time with their three children, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.