Phyllis Caroff

She was born February 22, 1924 in Newark, NJ to Harry and Irene Friedman. She is survived by Joseph Caroff, her loving husband of 81 years; sons Michael and Peter; daughters-in-law Ruth and Cynthia; and granddaughter Jennifer.

Phyllis earned many degrees and memberships during her professional career, including her PhD and Doctor of Social Welfare from Columbia University in 1969; acceptance into the New York State Society of Clinical Social Work Psychotherapists in 1977; distinguished Practitioner and Member of the National Academy of Practice in Social Work in 1983; recognition by the National Association of Social Workers in Washington, D.C. in 1987; and bronze Member of the Founders Guild of Phi Beta Kappa in 2018. She also served as a board member of Planned Parenthood.

She was a founding faculty member at Hunter College School of Social Work where she taught for over 30 years. She lectured and published widely on topics of clinical social work and social work in health care. She established the post-masters program in clinical social work at Hunter College and directed it for many years. She was a talented psychotherapist and practiced until the age of 90.

She was a wonderful friend, mentor, and colleague to many students and faculty members.

She was dearly loved by her family and friends, and will always be remembered for her wisdom, courage, kindness, and generosity.

Rest in Peace Phyllis.