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.