Barbara Taylor Bowman, Early Childhood Education Advocate, Dies at 96
Barbara Taylor Bowman, a renowned advocate for early childhood education, has passed away at the age of 96. Her daughter, Valerie Jarrett, CEO of the Obama Foundation, fondly remembered her mother’s dedication to her family and her work.
A Life of Service
Bowman held many roles throughout her influential career, including consultant, commissioner, speaker, board member, founder, advocate, academic, and author. However, her most important job was caring for her family in South Kenwood, said Jarrett.
A True Visionary
Bowman was born on October 30, 1928, on the South Side of Chicago, where her father, Robert Rochon Taylor, became the first African American to chair the Chicago Housing Authority in the 1940s. A collection of CHA high-rises on the South Side were named for him. Her mother, Dorothy Taylor, was a teacher.
Educational Career
Bowman attended Hyde Park High School before transferring to and graduating from Northfield Mount Hermon, a prep school in Massachusetts. She graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in 1950 and became a preschool teacher, sparking a passion for early childhood education. She married Dr. James Bowman the same year and earned her master’s degree in education from the University of Chicago in 1952.
Founding the Erikson Institute
In 1966, Bowman co-founded what would become the Erikson Institute, launched in response to concerns that few teachers were adequately trained to work with children enrolled in the growing Head Start program for low-income families. The institute has prepared generations of early childhood professionals.
Legacy
Bowman’s legacy is one of transformation, not only of Erikson but of the entire early childhood education landscape. She didn’t just shape an institution – she helped shape the very foundation of the field.
Conclusion
Barbara Taylor Bowman’s life was a testament to her dedication to her family, her work, and her community. Her tireless advocacy for early childhood education has left a lasting impact on the field. She will be deeply missed by those who knew her and worked with her.
FAQs
Q: What was Barbara Taylor Bowman’s most important job?
A: Caring for her family in South Kenwood.
Q: What was her most notable achievement?
A: Founding the Erikson Institute, which has prepared generations of early childhood professionals.
Q: What was her approach to success?
A: Measuring success in how one bettered the world around them, rather than in titles or accolades.
Q: What was her most important advice?
A: “It’s going to be fine.”
