January 2nd 2025.
Phyllis Goldblatt was a highly esteemed professor at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago for an impressive 35 years. During her tenure, she dedicated herself to studying various models of teaching from all corners of the world, including China, in order to enrich her own classroom practices.
June Sochen, a retired history professor at Northeastern, spoke highly of Goldblatt's passion for international and comparative education. Sochen noted that this quality allowed her students to expand their perspectives beyond the immediate context of Chicago's public schools and to consider education on a global scale.
Sadly, Goldblatt passed away at the age of 93 due to congestive heart failure. Her son, Howard, shared that she died peacefully at her home in Evanston. Goldblatt was born as Phyllis Kaufman in Chicago and spent her childhood on the West Side before moving to South Haven, Michigan. She later earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan.
After a few years of teaching elementary school in Glencoe, Goldblatt decided to further her education by pursuing a master's degree in education at Columbia University in New York. She then went on to receive her Ph.D. in comparative and international education from the University of Chicago. Despite the challenges of commuting from her homes in North Side and Skokie, Goldblatt successfully completed her doctorate in 1968. Her dissertation delved into the impact of economic conditions in Mexico on children's literacy rates.
In 1968, Goldblatt joined Northeastern Illinois as an assistant professor of education foundations. She was highly regarded by her colleagues and students for her exceptional teaching skills. Mitchell Vogel, former chair of the education foundations department, shared that Goldblatt's classes were always in high demand and that she was a highly sought-after teacher. Vogel also praised her ability to combine her classical training with a deep understanding of newer dynamics in education.
Goldblatt's dedication and hard work eventually led to her promotion to full professor at Northeastern. Vogel described her as a beloved teacher and colleague, and many who worked with her enjoyed her insightful views on various topics.
Goldblatt retired from Northeastern in 2006, but she continued to lead a fulfilling life. She enjoyed attending chamber music events, traveling, and being a part of her book club. Her friend Nancy Kotler, a retired lawyer and member of the book club, shared that Goldblatt had a sharp mind and a deep curiosity that made her stand out. Kotler recalled a book club meeting where Goldblatt led a discussion on Bob Dylan after he won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2016. She was blown away by Goldblatt's extensive research and thought-provoking insights.
Goldblatt is survived by her husband, Marvin, her son Howard, her daughter Janice, and two grandchildren. A service was held to honor her memory. She will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and the academic community.
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