Distinguished Alumni Awards

Vaughn Gross
B.S. ’67, Special Education

Vaughn Gross is a distinguished leader who dedicated more than four decades to supporting literacy, special education, gifted education, and teacher professional development. Serving as principal of Brentfield Elementary, high expectations and sustained achievement led to campus recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School and one of the best schools in Texas by Texas Monthly. She also led Hamilton Park Pacesetter Magnet School to a state Exemplary rating, continuing her steady commitment to strong instruction and meaningful opportunities.

Gross later served as assistant superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction in Richardson ISD, where she championed literacy initiatives and professional development programs that continue to elevate instructional practice today. As former chair of the UT College of Education Advisory Council and the namesake of the Vaughn Gross Center for Reading and Language Arts, she promoted initiatives that strengthened reading instruction across the state, including support of the Texas Reading Initiative.

Through visionary leadership, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to helping Texas students succeed, Gross exemplifies excellence in teaching and education. 

Jeanne and Mickey Klein are longtime philanthropists and passionate supporters of The University of Texas at Austin. Jeanne earned her degree in special education from the College of Education, while Mickey graduated with a degree in petroleum engineering and later earned his J.D. A life member of the UT College of Education Advisory Council, Jeanne has been a leading advocate for social and emotional learning in Austin schools and a champion of public elementary education. Mickey shares Jeanne’s passion for education, supporting college initiatives and serving as a valued volunteer and mentor at UT Elementary.

As steadfast advocates for public elementary education, the Kleins became founding members of the UT Elementary Development Council. They also partnered with Humanities Texas to elevate the Outstanding Teaching Award into a prestigious statewide honor, recognizing and celebrating exceptional educators across Texas. They provided early leadership support for Texas Education THRIVE, and Jeanne has been instrumental in launching and growing the program, which supports early-career teachers through mentorship and professional development.

Through their generosity and vision, the Kleins have established an endowed scholarship in the College of Education that has benefitted numerous students and will continue to support aspiring educators for generations to come. In addition, they have made a planned gift to further strengthen education across Texas. This lasting commitment reflects their dedication to expanding opportunities for future educators and preparing teachers to make an enduring impact in classrooms and communities.

Their philanthropy extends across the Forty Acres to numerous campus initiatives, from the UT Austin School of Nursing to the Blanton Museum of Art. Through intentional giving and active engagement, Jeanne and Mickey Klein have created an enduring legacy that strengthens educators, enriches students and benefits communities throughout Texas.

Ginni Mithoff
B.S. ’69, Elementary Education 

Ginni Mithoff is a lifelong champion whose dedication to elementary education, children’s health and community well-being has transformed lives across Texas. She began her career as a teacher before emerging as a leader in nonprofit advocacy. A life member of the UT College of Education Advisory Council and longtime member of the UT Development Board, Mithoff has played a vital role in advancing the college’s mission.

In Houston, she helped establish the Children’s Health Fund, leading to the creation of the Ginni & Richard Mithoff Trauma Center at Ben Taub Hospital, and spearheaded a $35 million capital campaign for the Children’s Museum of Houston. At the College of Education, her philanthropy established endowments to support early childhood education initiatives as well as LONESTARP3, Texas’ first statewide education research-practice-policy partnership.

Through her leadership and advocacy, the college advances research examining the impact of education policy and legislation on teachers and students, strengthening outcomes at both the local and statewide levels.

Her strong leadership, sustained service and deep belief in the transformative power of education have made a lasting impact on Texas children and educators – today and for generations to come.