In Memory of Dr. Allen C. Crocker

May Institute has lost a dear friend and kind man. Dr. Allen C. Crocker, a long-time board member and tremendous supporter of May Institute, died on October 23, 2011.

A graduate of Harvard Medical School, Dr. Crocker was a developmental pediatrician with Children’s Hospital in Boston. He was a pioneer in the study of systems of medical care for children with special needs.

Dr. Crocker served on May Institute’s Board of Directors for more than 30 years. Through the years, he became a good friend, trusted colleague, and invaluable resource to those of us who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.

“Allen and I both came to the May Institute around the same time in 1978,” recalls May Institute President Walter P. Christian, Ph.D., ABBP, ABPP. “I worked closely with him for a number of years doing seminars and trainings on autism for his students and staff at Children’s Hospital in Boston. Allen could not have been more supportive of our efforts over the years and will be sorely missed as a dear friend and colleague.”

Don Ricciato, Ph.D., Chairman of May Institute’s Board of Trustees, also worked closely with Dr. Crocker. They served together on the board for decades.

“Allen was a national leader in the field of pediatric medicine for children with disabilities. He was a constant advocate for the rights of individuals with special needs to lead engaged, productive lives,” shares Dr. Ricciato. “Allen’s work at Children’s Hospital in Boston and the many boards on which he served, profoundly impacted many people and organizations. The Board of Trustees is deeply appreciative of his remarkable years of service to the May Institute.”

In sharing the news of Dr. Crocker’s passing, his daughter wrote: “Allen had a beautiful life and he leaves a rich legacy. His motto… “Leave the campsite better than you found it.” That he certainly did—through his work as a pediatrician at Children’s Hospital for 60 years, his writing, his numerous kind gestures to friends and strangers alike… his generosity, optimism, and boundless love. How lucky I was to have him as my father.”

All of us mourn the loss of this outstanding man and extend our deepest sympathy to his family and broad community of friends. Dr. Crocker will be missed.