AZLE — The Azle Education Foundation celebrated community and raised money for local schools at Saturday’s 13th annual Red Solo Cup BBQ Bash fundraiser. Attendees bid on auction items, played games and enjoyed food, including desserts made by Azle High School culinary students. The AEF also presented two awards to outstanding individuals and Azle graduates.
Dr. Dan Mauldin, Azle High School Class of 1961, received the second ever distinguished alumni award at the event. He was a member of the school’s varsity football team and earned All-District honors for both offense and defense. He was senior class vice president, National Honor Society president, and a member of student council.
Mauldin went on to attend the University of Texas, where he played football as a member of the 1963 championship team. He played in the 1964 Cotton Bowl and the 1965 Orange Bowl. He was inducted into the Azle ISD Athletic Hall of Fame for his athletic achievements in 2015.
In addition to his athletic accomplishments, Mauldin received his bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in mathematics where he made major strides in solving mathematical problems from the famed Scottish Book. During his career, Mauldin served as a university professor, regents professor, professor emeritus and consultant for various agencies. He has authored more than 150 research papers and books.
Azle graduate and local resident Roddy Murr was awarded the AEF’s second ever 2025 Citizen of the Year Award. Murr spent his entire education in Azle schools and graduated in 1964. Speakers noted that he was a major supporter of the district and has served on numerous committees, associations and councils, including the Azle City Council, leading community and school efforts. He was pivotal in naming Azle’s newest school and each year he sponsors six scholarships for AHS seniors as well as the Jaylee Murr Williams memorial scholarship honoring his late daughter. Before retirement, he owned and operated Murr’s Main Street Drug. Many in attendance could recount positive experiences and the impact that Murr had on their lives. Murr thanked attendees for the honor and for supporting the AEF.