Dr. Anna Hiss

Born May 11, 1893 Deceased January 28, 1972

"Anna Hiss came to Austin from Baltimore, Maryland, where she had received her early education in the Bryn Mawr School. She attended Hollins College in Virginia (1912-1913) before enrolling in Sargent School (now Boston University) where she studied physical education for three years. In later years she continued her education at Teachers College, Columbia University, receiving a B.S. degree in 1936. During the summers she studied at the University of Colorado, University of Wisconsin, Mills College, Leland Stanford University and Columbia University."

"Apparently there was never any doubt in the mind of Anna Hiss as to the choice of her career. Having served as an instructor on the campus of the University of Texas during several summer sessions, she also knew that she liked living in Austin. In 1918 she accepted a full-time position as a member of the University faculty and quickly advanced from instructor to associate professor, to associate director, to director and then to full professor in 1941....She was instrumental in the establishment of the professional degree for physical education and the program for the preparation of teachers in the physical education field."

"In selecting Founders for the Delta Kappa Gamma Society, Dr. Blanton sought a broad cross section of the teaching profession. The inclusion of Anna Hiss augmented the diversity of educational interests represented. As much time as Anna could spare from her classroom and administrative work, she gave to Delta Kappa Gamma. Heartily in accord with its purposes and ideals, this Founder accepted chapter and national responsiblities."

Anna Hiss was committed to Delta Kappa Gamma and served in a wide range of committees, including Equal Opportunity for Women Teachers (1930-1931), Nominations (1931-1934), Constitution (1936-1938), Publications (1936-1939), Membership (1937-1940), and World and Community Service (1954-1956). Miss Hiss was chairman of the national committee instrumental in the choice and purchase of the lot for the headquarters in Austin.

On January 29, 1972, Anna Hiss died in Baltimore, Maryland, where she lived since retiring in 1957.