Paul Rutowski
Chair • Greater Austin Foundation for the Deaf
Paul Rutowski is a dedicated professional with a strong commitment to the Deaf community and a passion for business. Since 1997, he has been an active member of GAFD, witnessing and actively contributing to the transformation of the Greater Austin Deaf Community. Paul's dedication is evident through his role as the founder of "Keeping Employees Empowered and Productive LLC."
He is a versatile individual, with expertise ranging from being a restaurant owner, photography, landscape design to community service. Paul has also held leadership positions, serving as Chairman of the Greater Austin Foundation for the Deaf and President Emeritus of the Texas Association of the Deaf. Along with hosting numerous Golf Tournaments at all levels.
Beyond his professional pursuits, he is a loving husband to Avonne and a devoted father to two children, Alexandria (deaf) and Andrew (CODA). His philanthropic efforts have raised over $1 million for various causes. Additionally, Paul has contributed as a former board member at the American Foundation for the Elderly Deaf and the Texas School for the Deaf Foundation, further demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the community.
Dr. Jerry Paul Katz
Jerry Katz, an accomplished professional, holds a BA from the University of Texas at Austin and a DDS from the University of Texas School of Dentistry in Houston. His commitment to dentistry is evident through fellowships in the Academy of General Dentistry, the American College of Dentistry, and the International College of Dentistry.
Jerry's impressive career includes three "Dentist of the Year" awards from the Central Texas Academy of General Dentistry and the Capital Area Dental Society, along with recognition as a Texas Monthly "Super Dentist."
Rooted in his upbringing, Jerry's unwavering dedication and strong work ethic reflect his mother's influence. He's recognized for being the last to leave a room, a testament to his values. Jerry Katz, a CODA, carries on the legacy of his deaf parents, Joe and Rosie Katz.
Tom Cowan
Outgoing Treasurer • Greater Austin Deaf Foundation
Tom graduated from Texas State University and is happily married to Sha. Both of them have been dedicated members of the Austin Deaf Community for several decades. Tom currently holds the position of a partner at the Austin Sign Language School. His wife, Sha, is retired but formerly served as the Director of Deaf Services at TEA and is a board member at the Texas School for the Deaf. Their deep involvement in and commitment to the Austin Deaf Community is well-established and enduring.
Cathy Williams
Cathy Williams, a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults), has dedicated her life to the world of American Sign Language interpretation. Her career resumed at the Texas School for the Deaf, where she not only provided but also coordinated interpreting services for the Athletic Department, Superintendent's office and legislative affairs.
Currently, Cathy serves as a Co-Director and Board Member at the Austin Sign Language School, where she continues to make significant contributions to the Deaf community. Beyond her professional commitments, she passionately devotes her personal time to humanitarian work. Cathy has undertaken missions to various parts of Africa, where she has played an instrumental role in establishing the first deaf congregation in Malawi. Her dedication to both her profession and her mission work showcases her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of Deaf individuals.
SheLLEY OISHI
Treasurer • Greater Austin Deaf Foundation
Shelley Oishi is a seasoned professional in the telecommunications industry, with a rich background that spans over a decade. Starting her career as the Business Development Manager for Relay Texas at Sprint, Shelley has demonstrated her commitment to enhancing communication for the deaf and hard of hearing community. With a Master's in Rehabilitation Counseling, she spent three years in mental health counseling and has extensive experience in job development.
Before her current role, Shelley made significant contributions at the Texas School for the Deaf, first as a work training specialist and later as a Parent Liaison. In 2015, she joined Purple Communications, managing enterprise accounts across 12 states, and played a pivotal role during the ZVRS merger as Regional Director.
Currently, as the Business Development Director at Communication Service for the Deaf, Shelley continues to drive forward initiatives aimed at improving accessibility and inclusion, showcasing her enduring dedication to the community.
Vince DiMare
Vince DiMare is an alumnus of Stephen F. Austin State University. He has enjoyed a prosperous career as a commercial private lender since 1990. Vince currently serves as the principal of Equity Secured Capital, a company specializing in providing bridge loans as a private lender. Vince is happily married to Jan, and they have two sons. Notably, their son Vincent is a proud alumnus of the Texas School for the Deaf and also holds a degree from Gallaudet University.
Bobbie Beth Scoggins
Bobbie Beth Scoggins hails from a Deaf family and boasts an impressive educational background. She obtained her BA degree in Psychology and later pursued a Master's in Administration and Supervision from CSUN. Furthermore, Bobbie Beth holds an Ed.D. in Institutional Management from Pepperdine University.
In addition to her academic achievements, she has made significant contributions in various fields. Bobbie Beth is a distinguished actress with a noteworthy tenure at the National Theatre of the Deaf. She has also held the prestigious position of President at the USA Deaf Sports Federation. Furthermore, she has served as the Executive Director of the Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Notably, she is the fourth woman to assume the role of President at the National Association of the Deaf (NAD).
Peggy Ann St. John
Peggy Ann St. John, originally from a deaf family in Florida, is a dynamic individual bursting with enthusiasm. Her unwavering passion drives her to actively contribute to the deaf community, participating in a wide range of activities, from galas and fundraising to social events and more.
Peggy Ann proudly graduated from the Model Secondary School for the Deaf in Washington DC and holds a degree from Gallaudet University. Her commitment to the deaf community extends to her family as well; she is the proud parent of two CODA (Children of Deaf Adults) children, Emma and Trey. Recently, she entered a new chapter in her life as she tied the knot with Allen Hamilton. Both Peggy Ann and Allen are dedicated professionals who work full-time at the Texas School for the Deaf, further solidifying their commitment to the community.
Evan Winegard
Evan Winegard, an accomplished financial professional in Austin, Texas, serves as CFO for various organizations, offering expertise in accounting, equity development, and mergers. With over a decade of experience, he aids businesses of all sizes across diverse industries. Evan owns Abstract CFO, assisting startups, nonprofits, and established companies with accounting, strategic planning, and process enhancement. He's also the CFO for CHILMarketing and TRUE+ WAY ASL. Evan holds degrees from the Rochester Institute of Technology, is fluent in ASL, and actively supports causes, serving on boards like the Texas School for the Deaf Foundation. Beyond his professional pursuits, Evan enjoys sports and coaching basketball, and he co-founded the Deaf Pickleball Association
Jon Wolf
Jon Wolf is a proud alumnus of Texas A&M, known affectionately as an Aggie. His expertise in the wine industry has made him the go-to authority on all things wine-related. In recent years, Jon has broadened his horizons by venturing into a distribution company that extends beyond wine.
In his personal life, Jon is happily married to Angie, who has made significant contributions as a member of the Texas School for the Deaf Board. Together, they are parents to three children, two Amanda and Travis of whom are deaf and have received their education at the Texas School for the Deaf.
