Phyllis Pitt, a doctoral candidate, field supervisor and adjunct instructor in the Graduate School of Education (GSE) died on May 31 after being struck by a car in Brooklyn. She was a longtime public and private school teacher in Brooklyn yeshivas.

“We grieve today with the family and loved ones of Phyllis Pitt,” said Joseph M. McShane, S.J., president of the University. “With one long and distinguished career behind her, she was struck down just as she prepared to embark on a new adventure. Her death is a loss to her students, her colleagues, and of course her husband and children. I know that the Fordham family joins me in keeping Phyllis and her loved ones in our thoughts and prayers.”

Pitt is survived by her husband, Michael, and two adult children. The family lives in Brooklyn.

“Phyllis Pitt was a dedicated teacher educator and an insightful, promising researcher, committed to finding ways to support her students’ learning,” said Rita Brause, Ed.D., associate dean and professor in GSE. “She was especially interested in meeting the needs of very young children with disabilities. Those who knew her admired her constant thirst for learning, her caring concern for others and her quiet graciousness. Phyllis’ students noted that she often spoke lovingly of her grandchildren. Her death has already created an immense vacuum.”

The University will publish details about services and memorials as they become available.

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