The Phyllis L. Kossoff Endowed Lecture Series.

Since the creation of its Department of Education Policy and Social Analysis in 2010, Teachers College has enhanced its standing as a preeminent training ground for future education policy leaders.

One major reason for that success, beyond the College's longstanding track record of shaping data-driven policy through research, practice and dialogue, is the generosity of Phyllis L. Kossoff, distinguished alumna, scholarship supporter and member of the President’s Advisory Council.

Through the Phyllis L. Kossoff Lecture on Education and Policy—established through the Phyllis L. Kossoff Endowed Lectureship Fund that she continues to support—the College has hosted important national, state and local public figures in education. Speakers have included: New York State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia, former U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, former New York State Board of Regents Chancellor Merryl Tisch (Ed.D.’05), former State Education Commissioner David Steiner, former NYC Schools Chancellor Dennis Walcott, and NYC Schools Chancellor Carmen Fariña. In fall 2012, the Kossoff Lecture featured a live debate between the education advisers to the Democratic and Republican presidential nominees, President Obama and Mitt Romney.

A long-time member of TC’s Grace Dodge Society, Ms. Kossoff also created the Phyllis and Burton Kossoff Endowed Scholarship Fund in 2001, and has included TC in her estate plans. She established a Charitable Gift Annuity in 2014, the remainder of which is designated for the Phyllis Kossoff Lecture Fund. 

(Published 1/26/14)

Published Monday, Jan. 27, 2014