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CORA CLINGER
(1890-1979)
Cora Clinger, fondly called "Aunt Cora," dedicated 40 years to the Texas School for the Deaf (TSD). Even after retiring in 1953, she volunteered extensively, logging 5,000 hours at the Deaf center in Austin State Hospital. In 1983, TSD renamed their gymnasium the "Cora Clinger Recreational Center" in her honor. A pioneer athlete, Cora was part of TSD's first girls' basketball team in 1905. Her enduring legacy is symbolized by her name sign, a "T" tapped on the chest, reflecting her lifelong dedication to TSD and sports.
JAMES KALLINA
(1946-2000)
James Kallina served as president of ADC for 9 years, making him the longest-serving president in AAD history. He was known for his friendly demeanor and storytelling. He began his teaching career at the Wisconsin School for the Deaf in 1970 before returning to the Texas School for the Deaf in 1978. Over the next 22 years, Kallina taught various subjects such as woodworking, math, and job skills. He was passionate about fishing and often tried to involve students in his hobby. Kallina was active in his interests and made a significant impact on the deaf community.
JACK HENSLEY
(1919-1989)
Jack Hensley, former treasurer at ADC for 13 years, holding the record as longest Treasurer in ADC history until John Mills surpassed it. He taught at the Texas School for the Deaf for 39 years until his retirement in 1984. Known for his popularity among students. He held leadership roles in the Texas Association of the Deaf and the Lone Star Alumni Association (now Texas School for the Deaf Alumni Association). He was also a member of Bannockburn Baptist Church.
WANDA A. BUTLER & GWENDAL D. BUTLER
(1925-2005)
(1923-1992)
Wanda and Gwendal Butler were actively involved in various Deaf communities, including the Texas Association of the Deaf. In 1970, the couple sold a 3-acre property on Cullen Lane to the Austin Deaf Club. They remained dedicated to the ADC until their passing, contributing their time and effort for many years.
(1932-2003)
Shirley & Jack Thompson, (Incoming more information)
SHIRLEY THOMPSON & JACK THOMPSON
(1930-2001)
MORRIS PORTER & SALLY PORTER
(1938-2023)
(1943-2022)
Morris Porter, a dedicated member of the Austin Deaf Club for 65+ years, served on the board and worked as a bartender for many years. Since September 1958, Morris was a pillar of loyalty to the club, known for his love of Texas hold 'em poker and warm, friendly demeanor. Morris has now joined his late wife, Sally Porter, who also volunteered and was a loyal member of ADC. The Austin Deaf Club mourns the end of an era with the loss of the Porters.
BRENDA MILLS & JOHN MILLS
(1942-Present)
(1944-2023)
In the modern era, John holds the record as the longest-serving Treasurer of ADC for 28+ years. John and Brenda have shown amazing loyalty to ADC. John has also taught at the Texas School for the Deaf and has been involved with various officer roles in Deaf non-profit organizations, especially as Treasurer. His wife, Brenda, has volunteered her services at ADC on numerous occasions. Both couples were honored with lifetime memberships in 2018.
Ronald Strain & Beth Strain-Hill
(19??-20??)
(1934-Present)
Ronald Strain served as the longest ADC Clubhouse Manager for 11 years, alongside his wife, Beth Strain, who was the former social affair coordinator. Beth invented Banknight, Mexican Train, and many other activities during her tenure. Throughout this era, Beth dedicated her time to enriching ADC with her friends and preserving its history, Having witnessed all the different eras since the 1950s, Beth has been an integral part of ADC's legacy.
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