TITLE: In memory of Lanny van Allen.

SUMMARY: In memory of Lanny van Allen.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas joins the citizens of Austin in mourning the loss of Lanny van Allen, who died March 27, 2015, at the age of 79; and WHEREAS, Lanny van Allen was born on March 25, 1936, in Somerset, Kentucky, and she spent her formative years in nearby Lancaster; she earned a bachelor's degree from Centre College in Danville, Kentucky, and a master's degree from George Peabody College in Nashville, Tennessee; in 1991, she earned a doctorate in curriculum development from The University of Texas; and WHEREAS, Dedicated to the field of education, Mrs. van Allen spent 15 years teaching in middle school and high school classrooms and was recognized for excellence on numerous occasions; she regularly contributed to professional publications, and she retired from a distinguished administrative career as director of programs for English language arts in the Division of Curriculum and Professional Development at the Texas Education Agency; and WHEREAS, She shared 55 years of marriage with Dirk van Allen; they were blessed with two children and two grandchildren, and she guided her family according to the principles of her faith; and WHEREAS, Mrs. van Allen was an active member of All Saint's Episcopal Church, where she served in a number of leadership positions; she gave generously of her time to the community and was the first female member and female president of the Exchange Club of Austin and a driving force in BookSpring's Reach Out and Read program; and WHEREAS, Lanny van Allen was a woman of grace and charm and was respected and admired throughout the community; she was a friend and a mentor to many, and she leaves behind memories that will long be cherished by all who were privileged to share in her life; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 84th Legislature, hereby extend sincere condolences to the bereaved family of Lanny van Allen; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for her family as an expression of deepest sympathy from the Texas Senate and that when the Senate adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Lanny van Allen. Watson President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on April 29, 2015, by a rising vote.