Harriett M. Allyn

Harriett M. Allyn (4 May 1883 – 7 July 1957) was an American zoologist, anthropologist, and college administrator. She was the first academic dean of Mount Holyoke College, appointed in 1929. one of four children born to Charles and Helen Louisa Starr Allyn.

Allyn began work as the first academic dean of Mount Holyoke College in 1929, where she served as professor of anthropology and head of academic administration until her retirement in 1948. She was President of the American Council of Guidance and Personnel Associations 1940–1942.

Retirement and death Allyn retired in 1948, after 19 years as dean at Mount Holyoke. She was made a dean-emeritus and awarded an honorary doctor of law degree. In her retirement, Allyn lived in Los Angeles and South Hadley. She continued to travel internationally, as well as to lecture across the United States on educational topics.

Harriett May Allyn died of a heart attack in Los Angeles at the age of 74. She was buried in Cedar Grove Cemetery, New London, Connecticut.