Learn about our members

Professional Associates (PA) is a community of nearly 50 educators, scientists, innovators, business leaders, policymakers, and professionals who bring their real-world experience to support Fort Lewis College. Members share a commitment to strengthening student learning, enriching faculty teaching, and advancing community partnerships across the Four Corners.

Expertise across disciplines

PA members represent seven core areas of expertise:

  • Medicine, public health, and life sciences
  • Engineering, physical sciences, and technology
  • Environmental science and ecology
  • Education, sociology, and community development
  • Arts, communication, and humanities
  • Leadership, strategy, and organizational management
  • Law, policy, and government service

This breadth of knowledge allows PA members to serve as guest lecturers, mentors, advisors, and collaborators—bringing valuable insight to classrooms, academic programs, and community initiatives.

History and purpose

Professional Associates was established in 1999 by President Kendall Blanchard as a strategic advisory group. Since then, its role has expanded to include direct support for students, faculty, and community programming—while maintaining a strong advisory partnership with college leadership.

Meet our members

Each member brings a unique background and perspective to Fort Lewis College. Browse the directory below to explore individual bios, professional experience, and areas of expertise.

Gay Grossman

g144man@population-matters.org

Profession:  Educator | Early Childhood Development Specialist | Community Leader

Education

  • 1965, BA, History with Honors, Swarthmore College
  • 1966, MAT, Secondary History/Government, Harvard Graduate School of Education
  • 1982, BA, Elementary Education, Fort Lewis College

Career Profile

Gay Grossman has dedicated her career to secondary and elementary education, with a special passion for early childhood learning.

  • Taught secondary social studies & English in Philadelphia (public & private schools) and Simsbury, CT.
  • Relocated to New Mexico (1970), teaching in Taos and later raising two sons in Albuquerque.
  • Moved to Durango (1976) and taught part-time at Colorado Timberline Academy.
  • Co-founded Durango Early Learning Center (DELC) in 1978, where she served as Assistant Director (1978-2002).
  • Earned Colorado & New Mexico K-12 certification in 1982 after additional studies at Fort Lewis College.

Volunteer & Community Service

  • Durango Nature Studies: Naturalist/teacher for 24+ years, including 6 years on the Board of Directors (2 as co-president).
  • Durango Choral Society: Member since 1976, currently serving on the Board of Directors.
  • Lamaze Childbirth Education: Instructor for many years.
  • Big Brothers/Big Sisters: Mentor since 2002.
  • Heartwood Cohousing (Bayfield, CO): Played a key role in its formation and has led several community teams/committees since moving there in 2000.
  • Other Involvements:
    • Member of Great Old Broads for Wilderness and American Association of University Women.
    • Active in Friends of the Pine River Library and Pine River Shares.

Fort Lewis College Activities

  • Lifelong engagement with FLC Music Department and courses through Office of Continuing Education.
  • Frequent attendee of Life-Long Learning lectures.
  • Participated in events with Professional Associates, alongside husband Richard.

Personal Interests

  • Environmental stewardship, nature studies, and intentional communities.
  • Mentoring & tutoring children.
  • Family and grandchildren.
  • Music & Performing Arts: Longtime singer with Durango Choral Society.
  • Outdoor Activities: Hiking, skiing, horseback riding, and water sports.

Travel & International Experience

  • Extensive travel to Europe, Australia/New Zealand, India, Hong Kong/China, and Peru.
  • Lived in Puerto Rico and Costa Rica.
  • Grew up in Montreal, Canada and is a graduate of The Putney School, Vermont.