Cockefair Hall, Carolyn Benton Cockefair

The building originally served as the law school for the University of Missouri Kansas City. After renovations, it became home to the English and History departments and was named in honor of Carolyn Benton Cockefair in 1980. Cockefair was one of the most influential educators at the University of Kansas City. Known for her unorthodox methods, strong relationships throughout the community, and students who consistently credited her for their success, Carolyn Cockefair was honored with the naming of the campus building that is now home to the English and History departments.

Born near Odessa, Missouri, on November 30, 1884, a time when women faced limited opportunities, Carolyn Cockefair accepted an offer from the University of Missouri and found her niche: teaching non-traditional students. She continued to educate non-traditional students throughout her career, which spanned multiple universities, and took her to many different cities throughout Missouri. Conckefair led the development of organizations for university women and was honored through the creation of the Cockefair Chair, a fund established by her past students that supports numerous events and programs.

History - Carolyn Benton Cockefair, University of Missouri-Kansas City. Accessed August 14th, 2022. https://info.umkc.edu/cockefair/about/history-carolyn-benton-cockefair/.