Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P. President | St. John's University website

Jerrold Ross, Ph.D., former Dean of The School of Education at St. John’s University, passed away peacefully at Calvary Hospital on February 1, 2024, at the age of 88. Dr. Ross was a dedicated educator, a passionate supporter of the arts, and a proud New Yorker who played a significant role in advancing the university's Vincentian mission.

Dr. Ross served as the longest-tenured Dean of The School of Education from 1995 to 2014 and was also the Academic Vice President of the Staten Island campus. Under his leadership, the School of Education achieved new heights of academic accomplishment and strengthened its position as a vibrant educational community member in the metropolitan area.

Before joining St. John’s University, Dr. Ross began his career as a music teacher in various public schools, including Syosset, Great Neck, and New York. He later became Chairman of the Department of Music and Music Education and Head of the Division of Arts and Arts Education at New York University.

Dr. Ross's love for the arts and culture was evident throughout his career, as he consistently promoted the benefits of a well-rounded liberal arts education. He actively served on various boards, including the Usdan Summer Camp for the Arts in Wheatley Heights. As President of Usdan's Board of Trustees from 1967 to 2003, a building was named in his honor as recognition of his contributions.

During his tenure at St. John’s University, Dr. Ross introduced numerous new programs and prioritized diversity, equity, and inclusion. He believed that a culturally diverse faculty would attract an equally diverse student body and tailored unique programs to help graduates teach students from different cultural backgrounds.

Dr. Ross's commitment to education was widely recognized, and he received several awards and honors throughout his career. In 2006, he was awarded the Distinguished Achievement Medal by St. John’s University, and in 2008, he received the President's Medal. The New York State Education Department and its Board of Regents also presented him with a certificate commemorating his 50 years of service to the children of New York State.

Reflecting on his legacy, Dr. Ross expressed his desire to be remembered as a visionary leader who introduced and implemented key programs at The School of Education. He also hoped to be remembered for his role in spearheading innovative partnerships with private schools, corporations, governmental organizations, and other entities. Dr. Ross believed in pushing individuals to exceed their own expectations and said, "I hope to be remembered for helping people to do more than they believe they are capable of doing."

Dr. Ross is survived by his partner of 51 years, Robert Harrod, his beloved cat "Miss Coco," nieces and nephews, as well as numerous friends, colleagues, and former students. A memorial service will be held at Temple Emanu-El in New York City on Monday, February 5, followed by a reception. In honor of Dr. Ross, donations can be made to the Alice Murray and Jerrold Ross Scholarship Fund at St. John's University.