Dr. Verna Dauterive (M.Ed. ‘49, Ed.D. ‘66) has devoted her entire professional career to public education. Her career began as an elementary teacher in Los Angeles in 1943. From 1982 until her retirement in 2005, Dr. Dauterive was principal of Franklin Avenue Elementary School in Los Feliz. As a zealous supporter of arts education, Dr. Dauterive developed a strong elementary arts program, which included instrumental and vocal music. During her tenure at Franklin, she governed with a “child-first” approach and galvanized support for the school by activating and engaging the parents in the education of the children.
Dr. Dauterive earned her Ed.D. from USC’s Rossier School of Education while already active as a teacher and administrator in LAUSD. She was appointed to the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) by Governor Wilson, and served two terms as chair. Prior to her work on CTC, she was appointed by Governor Deukmejian to the California Commission on the Status of Women, and also served two terms as elected chair. Prior to her service at Franklin, she served as LAUSD’s Coordinator of Integration Programs, and Administrative Consultant for Teacher Selection and Recruitment.
Among her many honors, Dr. Dauterive was awarded the USC Distinguished Alumni Association Service Award, the USC Rossier School of Education Recognition of Outstanding Support for Education (R.O.S.E.) award, The Principal’s Recognition Award by the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce for Exemplary Administrative Leadership, and the City of Angels Parent/Community Involvement Award.
Dr. Dauterive is a member of the Rossier School of Education Board of Councilors and established the first scholarship for minority doctoral students in education.
