Dr. Sidney J. Parnes

Dr. Sidney J. Parnes, 91, Distinguished World-Class Educator, Researcher, Author on Creative Behavior

San Diego, CA, August 21, 2013 - - Dr. Sidney J. Parnes, who pioneered Creative Thinking and Creative Problem-Solving with Alex Osborn, founder of the Creative Education Foundation in 1954, died August 19, 2013 in San Diego. He was 91.
Dr. Parnes was the world's leading expert on creativity, innovation and creative problem-solving. A lifelong researcher, author and distinguished world-class educator, he was one of the most sought-after inspirational keynote speakers and teachers for more than a half century. He was also the Founding Director and Professor Emeritus of the International Center for Studies in Creativity at the State University College at Buffalo and developed its Master's degree program.
He launched his lengthy career in 1956 as Director of the Creative Problem-Solving Institute (CPSI), Buffalo State College. From 1967 to 1984, he served as President of the Creative Education Foundation and subsequently, Chairman of its Board of Trustees. He continued to play a highly influential role on the Board as a Lifetime Trustee until his recent illness.
As the foremost authority on creativity, he has traveled to five continents leading countless conferences, workshops, seminars and courses for leaders in numerous professions. And, as a pioneer researcher and prolific author, he has made the most significant contributions to the field with a dozen leading-edge books and hundreds of articles, translated into seven languages.
Numerous organizations have praised his lifetime contributions to the creative movement, such as The Odyssey of the Mind Organization, State University College at Buffalo and Creative Education Foundation with awards for Service/Commitment, Distinguished Leader and Outstanding Creative Achievements.
The Innovation Network recognized his immense contributions with a Lifetime Achievement Award and in 2003; the Foundation inducted him into its first Hall of Fame. The American Creativity Association also inducted him into its first Hall of Fame in 2004.
When asked, "Why such a passionate pursuit to help everyone – worldwide – release their creative potential in their personal and professional lives?" Parnes replied, "Because creativity enables us to make our world a better place."
His key learnings:"Always appreciate the good in others and stay optimistic. I believe one can find opportunities in any problem," he said. He credits his wife, Bea, for assisting him in his lifelong research and development work, adding: "She's my indispensible colleague, my life companion and dearest friend."
In addition to his wife, Beatrice, Parnes leaves a daughter Susan, son-in-law William Hartwell, and grandchildren, Alison and Aimee. His son, Robert is deceased.
The Foundation will celebrate Parnes' enduring legacy in June 2014 at its week-long Annual Creative Problem Solving Institute in Buffalo, NY, where colleagues and hundreds of participants will mark the Foundation's 60th anniversary. A "Sid Parnes Memorial Fund" through the Foundation invites contributions to perpetuate his legacy and promote the creative movement worldwide (http//creativeeducationfoundation.o
rg/sid-parnes).