Dr. Richard S. Grossley (1886-1955) was an educator and researcher who resided in Jamaica. He earned master's and doctoral degrees in education from New York University, and was awarded an honorary doctorate of laws from South Carolina State University. Throughout his career, Grossley taught in rural schools in Mississippi and Louisiana before eventually becoming president of Baton Rouge and Delaware State Colleges. In 1948, he joined the faculty of Long Island University, Brooklyn, and was associate professor of education at the time of his death.

In addition to his work in education, Grossley was a public relations executive for the Southern Association of Negro Colleges and Secondary Schools. He was also president of the American Teachers Association and edited its publication, the Bulletin. Other memberships include the National Education Association, the National Association of Adult Education, the National Negro Business League, the State Education Council, and the National Recreation Association. He was also considered instrumental in founding the Merrick Community Center in Jamaica.