Frank Bowe

BOWE--Frank. The Hofstra community is deeply saddened by the passing of Frank Bowe, Ph.D., LL.D., a professor of counseling, research, special education and rehabilitation (CRSR) and the Dr. Mervin Livingston Schloss Distinguished Professor for the Study of Disabilities. He served on the University faculty since 1989. Dr. Bowe was a nationally recognized champion for the rights of people with disabilities an a highly regarded and prolific researcher in this area. On the Hofstra campus he was celebrated for his excellent teaching skills an for being a professor who brought warmth, humor and unwavering dedication to the classroom. Dr. Bowe was executive director of the American Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities from 1976 to 1981. He was the organization's first executive officer, and provided crucial direction during the nationwide sit-in regarding Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act in 1977, the world's first civil-rights provision for persons with disabilities, which eventually led to the American Disabilities Act, passed in 1990. In 1980 Dr. Bowe, who was deaf, became the first person with a disability to represent any nation in the planning of the United Nations International Year of Disabled Persons. In 1992 Dr. Bowe received the Distinguished Service Award from the President for his lifetime achievement. In 1994 he was inducted into the National Hall of Fame for People with Disabilities. He is also credited as one of the architects of provisions in the 1996 Telecommunications Act that have greatly enhanced the quality of life for Americans with disabilities. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis, and daughters Doran and Whitney. In tribute to the memory of Dr. Bowe, all Hofstra University flags were lowered to half staff. John Miller Chairman, Board of Trustees Stuart Rabinowitz President Hofstra University