Early Life and Childhood Education
Barbara Taylor Bowman, a pioneering advocate for early childhood education and co-founder of the Erikson Institute, passed away on November 4 at the age of 96. Born in 1928 on Chicago’s South Side, Bowman’s journey into education began in earnest after she graduated from Sarah Lawrence College in 1950. She soon entered the classroom as a preschool teacher, and her passion for educational equity led her to pursue a master’s degree in education at the University of Chicago in 1952. Her early work laid the foundation for a career dedicated to improving opportunities for children, particularly those from under-resourced communities.
Bowman married Dr. James E. Bowman, and in 1956, they welcomed their daughter, Valerie Jarrett. Jarrett would later become a prominent Senior Advisor to President Barack Obama, reflecting her mother’s lifelong commitment to public service and equity.
Founding the Erikson Institute and Pioneering Change
In 1966, recognizing the critical need for specialized training in early childhood education, Bowman joined forces with child psychologist Maria Piers, social worker Lorraine Wallach, and businessman Irving Harris to establish the Erikson Institute. The institute aimed to equip educators with the knowledge and skills to support young children from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that every child could reach their potential. The Erikson Institute quickly became a respected institution in the field, and Barbara Taylor Bowman herself emerged as a globally recognized expert in early childhood development.
Mariana Souto-Manning, Erikson’s current president, described Bowman as a “true visionary” whose impact reshaped early childhood education. “She didn’t just shape an institution—she helped shape the very foundation of the field,” Souto-Manning said, honoring Bowman’s legacy of justice, equity, and commitment to child welfare.
Legacy and Contributions Beyond Erikson
In addition to her work at Erikson, Bowman served as its president from 1994 to 2001, introducing lasting traditions such as gifting a yellow rose to each Erikson graduate. Her influence extended nationally; she collaborated closely with former Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and served as a consultant to the U.S. Secretary of Education during President Obama’s administration. Despite her numerous accolades and responsibilities, Barbara Taylor Bowman continued teaching and participating in various educational committees and boards.
Recognized as one of “Chicago’s Very Own” by WGN-TV in 2017, Bowman’s contributions have been celebrated not only in Chicago but also across the nation. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her dedication to the field ensures that her influence will continue to inspire educators and advocates dedicated to equitable early childhood education.
