TEXAS SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Gabriel Cardenas
512-462-5372
[email protected]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEW APPOINTEE, LAUREN RIDLOFF, JOINS TEXAS SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF GOVERNING BOARD
Austin, Texas – January 10, 2025 – The Texas School for the Deaf (TSD) is proud to announce the appointment of new School Governing Board member, Lauren Ridloff, by Governor Greg Abbott.
Ridloff brings an impressive combination of experience, creativity, and advocacy to this new role, further enhancing TSD’s mission to empower those in our communities who are deaf and hard of hearing. While widely recognized as an acclaimed actress celebrated for her groundbreaking roles in blockbuster films, Lauren Ridloff is also a devoted mother of two sons and a passionate advocate for deaf education. She is an active member of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), the Actors’ Equity Association, and the National Association of the Deaf (NAD).
Born and raised in Chicago, Ridloff developed a deep love for storytelling and the arts early on. She graduated from California State University, Northridge, with a degree in English and later earned a master’s degree in Education from Hunter College. Before embarking on her acting career, she was a kindergarten teacher and worked tirelessly as an advocate for deaf education. Her transition to Hollywood was marked by her Tony-nominated performance in the 2018 Broadway revival of Children of a Lesser God.
In addition to her professional achievements, Ridloff has been an inspiring figure for the TSD community. In May 2024, she served as the keynote speaker for TSD’s commencement ceremony, where she inspired the graduating class by sharing the power of P-A-C-E — perseverance, adaptability, commitment, and encouragement. Her message resonated deeply with students and families alike, underscoring the importance of resilience and determination in achieving success.
“We are thrilled to welcome Lauren Ridloff to TSD's Governing Board, said TSD Superintendent Peter L. Bailey.
“Her extraordinary accomplishments, passion for advocacy, and deep connection to the Deaf community will undoubtedly enrich TSD’s efforts to inspire and support our school community.”
Appointed by the Governor of Texas and confirmed by the Senate, the TSD Governing Board oversees the school’s services, including budget preparation, policy adoption, and the employment and review of the Superintendent.
###
ABOUT THE TEXAS SCHOOL FOR THE DEAF (TSD)
The Texas School for the Deaf is the oldest continuously operating public school in Texas. Educating Texas students who are deaf and hard of hearing since 1856, the campus also provides outreach and educational resources for students, their families and professionals in the field throughout the state of Texas. With educational excellence and a strong belief in a culture and community at TSD, students form a unique identity based on their individual strengths and talents. TSD is an environment where students learn, grow, and belong. For more information about Texas School for the Deaf, visit: www.tsd.state.tx.us.