Grossman

Gay Grossman

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.