Elaine Klein

A professional dancer by age 8, Dr. Klein graduated from George Washington HS, Hunter College (Hall of Fame) and Columbia University (Ph.D.) By age 18, Dr. Klein taught at the university level often to returning WW II GIs. She became the first Jewish dean of a Catholic college, Marymount Manhattan where she was honored by dignitaries, such as the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, taught young luminaries, such as Geraldine Ferraro and hosted leaders such as Coretta Scott King.

Following an enriching term as Assoc. Dean at Iona College, Dr. Klein found her academic home at Westchester Community College (WCC). A recipient of the 1991 Faculty Excellence Award, she was a Faculty Senate Presiding Officer as well as Prof. of English, Speech and Communications.

Dr. Klein was a consultant for NY State, the American Cable Corp. and several publishing companies. Founding member of the Tri State Consortium for Educational TV, she also produced ESL pronunciation videos. Well into her 80s, Dr. Klein continued, with much joy, to teach and advise at WCC.

Her only love greater than teaching, drama and musical theater, was her nearly 50-year marriage to songwriter and businessman, the late Paul Klein, her eternal soul mate.

Dr. Elaine Klein is survived by her two loving sons: Jonathan and Glenn and his wife, Sharon and beloved nieces and nephews. She is pre-deceased by her loving brother, Stanley R. Small. A private memorial service will be held Nov. 29, at Riverside Memorial Chapel in Mt. Vernon NY.