In Memory of Barbara Gray

Barbara Gray, a Thomas R. Brown Foundation trustee and an extraordinary leader in economic education, passed away on July 5, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and excellence.

Barbara began her career in education, later enhancing her expertise with both a JD and an advanced degree in educational leadership. For many years, Barbara taught Advanced Placement courses in economics and political science at University High School in Tucson. Not only was she admired by students and colleagues for her exceptional teaching talent, she was also recognized as a U.S. Presidential Scholar Educator and a Flinn Foundation Outstanding Educator. 

In 2011, she became the Director of Educator Programs at the Thomas R. Brown Foundation (TRBF), where she played a pivotal role in developing the Foundation's strategic vision for strengthening economic education in Arizona. Under Barbara’s leadership, TRBF dramatically ramped up the number of teacher training workshops offered each year, significantly benefiting K-12 educators and students across Arizona. Her innovative spirit led to the creation of unique professional development programs, including an enduring economics book club and public events aimed at enhancing economic literacy. She recognized the value of Voices on the Economy and urged its founder to develop a teacher training program and a free online textbook, providing her invaluable support and counsel along the way. 

Even after retiring as the Director of Educator Programs at the end of 2019, Barbara continued to champion economic education as a TRBF board member, using her sharp mind and deep experience to further elevate the Foundation's work. In both her roles at TRBF, Barbara mentored many teacher leaders, creating a powerful multiplier effect and ensuring her unwavering commitment to advancing economic education will be felt for years to come. 

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Barbara will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, principled nature, remarkable intelligence, and robust intellectual curiosity.