News Summary
Nashville remembers Annette Schaffer Eskind, a dedicated advocate for public education who recently passed away. Her contributions to education reform and community service have left an indelible mark on Nashville, particularly through founding the Nashville Public Education Foundation and her role on the Metropolitan Nashville Board of Public Education. Throughout her life, Annette championed social justice and education, influencing generations of students and families. Her legacy continues to inspire those committed to public education and community welfare.
Nashville Mourns the Loss of Annette Eskind, Advocate for Public Education
Nashville is reflecting on the life and contributions of Annette Schaffer Eskind, a trailblazing advocate for public education, who passed away on July 13, 2025, at the age of 97. Eskind was a prominent figure in the local community, known for her dedication to social work and education reform, leaving a lasting impact on Nashville’s public education landscape.
Originally from Boston, Annette graduated from Brookline High School before earning her undergraduate degree from Arcadia University in Philadelphia. She later received a Master’s degree in Social Work from Boston University. During her studies, she met her future husband, Dr. Irwin B. Eskind, through her brother, Joseph. The couple moved to Nashville in 1956, where Dr. Eskind embarked on a prosperous career as an internist.
Career and Community Impact
Annette began her professional journey in Nashville as a caseworker for Jewish Family Services, a role she held from 1956 until 1980. Following this, she served as the casework supervisor from 1980 to 1990, where she played a pivotal role in assisting immigrant families from Eastern Europe and Russia to settle in Nashville. Her efforts extended to supporting local adoption processes within the Jewish Family Services.
In addition to her work with the Jewish community, Annette became a highly regarded advocate for public education. Distressed by the limited availability of public kindergarten services in Nashville, she took her concerns to the city’s administration. Her advocacy culminated in her appointment to the inaugural Metropolitan Nashville Board of Public Education by then-Mayor Beverly Briley, where she served from 1965 to 1973.
As a mother of two sons, both of whom graduated from Hillwood High School, she demonstrated her commitment to education by founding the Nashville Public Education Foundation. This organization was established to support teachers and principals throughout Davidson County public schools, ensuring access to quality education for all students.
Philanthropy and Honors
Annette Eskind and her husband were also known for their philanthropic efforts at Vanderbilt University, contributing to initiatives like the Annette and Irwin Eskind Biomedical Library and the Vanderbilt Eskind Diabetes Clinic. Their support extended to various other community organizations, including the Tennessee Performing Arts Center, the Council of Jewish Women, and the Nashville League of Women Voters.
Throughout her lifetime, Annette received numerous accolades for her contributions to the community. She was honored with the Human Relations Award, the YWCA Academy Award, and the E. Bronson Ingram Award, recognizing her unwavering commitment to social justice and education.
Family and Commemoration
Annette was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Irwin Eskind, who passed away in 2005, as well as her parents, Samuel and Dorothy Schaffer. She is survived by her two sons, five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.
A private graveside burial was held on July 16, 2025, with a funeral service conducted at The Temple, Congregation Ohabai Sholom. In recognition of Annette’s lifelong commitment to service and education, donations in her memory can be made to Jewish Family Services of Nashville or the Metropolitan Nashville Public Education Foundation.
Annette Eskind leaves behind a legacy of advocacy, compassion, and a profound belief in the power of education, inspiring future generations to contribute to the well-being of their communities.
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Additional Resources
- Nashville Banner: Annette Schaffer Eskind Obituary
- Wikipedia: Annette Eskind
- Tennessean: Annette Eskind Obituary
- Google Search: Annette Eskind
- NewsChannel 5: Civic Leader Annette Schaffer Eskind Has Died
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Annette Eskind
Author: HERE Nashville
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