Grammer Excellence Fund
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The Department of Psychology and UT have long enjoyed a close friendship with Dianne and Jerry Grammer. Since completing their undergraduate degrees at UT, the two continued to be active in the UT community, and especially in our department. Jerry, an active clinical psychologist with his own private practice, has always been eager to help the Psychology Department—as a vocal cheerleader, a fundraiser and as a generous supporter.
Among other activities, Jerry served as inaugural chair of the Psychology Advisory Committee(PAC), established in 2011. Under his leadership, the PAC helped establish five new graduate fellowships, as well as provided support for undergraduate research and training. The PAC, which has been cited as a model for other departments wishing to establish their own advisory committees, owes much of its success to Jerry's efforts.
Dr. Grammer also gave his energy to many other psychology related efforts, including at one time or another being president or chair, in several organizations, including Mental Health America in Texas, Texas Psychological Association, Capital Area Psychological Association and the Association for the Advancement of Psychology.
And now Jerry's legacy and community needs us. Jerry lost Dianne quite suddenly and unexpectedly in August 2011. Dianne, the ever-present sidekick to Jerry, will be missed by all, not only as Jerry’s wife and companion of nearly 40 years, but also as the wonderful and talented artist that left behind a beautiful legacy of work. In passing, Dianne lives on not only through her children, but through her beautiful oils and pastels of the Texas Hill Country and landscapes of the Southwest.
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Dr. Jerry Richard Grammer, a long-time supporter and cherished member of our department community. Dr. Grammer, who passed away on July 29, 2024 at the age of 78, played a pivotal role in advancing mental health research and advocacy throughout Texas. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Dianne and Jerry Grammer Excellence Fund for Mental Health Research at the University of Texas.
To honor Dianne and Jerry, the University has chosen to establish the Dianne and Jerry Grammer Excellence Fund for Mental Health Research in the Department of Psychology.