In Loving Memory of Dr. Arline Bronzaft, Noise Expert
- CHC
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
Tireless Voice for Those Affected by Noise
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our cherished colleague and friend, Arline Bronzaft, Ph.D.—pioneering noise researcher, tireless public health advocate, and a beloved mentor whose work forever changed how we understand the impact of noise on health, learning, and quality of life.
A Life Dedicated to Making the World Listen
Dr. Bronzaft’s groundbreaking work began in the 1970s as a professor of environmental psychology at Lehman College (CUNY), when she studied the effects of train noise on schoolchildren whose classrooms were located beside elevated subway tracks. Her research revealed that students in the quieter classrooms were nearly a year ahead in reading scores compared to those exposed to constant noise. More importantly, she helped implement soundproofing measures that closed the educational gap.
From that moment forward, she dedicated her life to proving that noise isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a public health issue. She authored influential research, advised government agencies, and became one of the world’s foremost experts on noise and its impact on heart health, mental health, sleep, and learning.
In New York City, she served multiple mayoral administrations through her role at GrowNYC, helped revise the city’s Noise Code in 2007, and became affectionately known as New York’s Noise Maven—a title she more than earned.
The Birth of International Noise Awareness Day
One of Arline’s most enduring legacies is International Noise Awareness Day (INAD), founded in 1996 in collaboration with the Center for Hearing and Communication (CHC). Together, we created a global movement to raise awareness about the harmful effects of noise on hearing and health. What began as a small initiative in New York City has now spread across more than 40 countries.
A Personal Reflection
I had the privilege of working alongside Arline for more than 30 years. She was brilliant, passionate, and relentless in her pursuit of a quieter and healthier world—but she was also warm, generous, and deeply human. Arline changed the way the world thinks about noise. I’m honored to have called her a colleague and a friend.
— Nancy Nadler, Deputy Executive Director
Center for Hearing and Communication
Why Her Work Matters to CHC
At CHC, we believe that hearing health is inseparable from environmental health. Arline’s research, advocacy, and partnership helped shape CHC’s noise education efforts and inspired the work of our Noise Center. She gave voice to communities affected by noise and empowered policymakers, educators, and young researchers to take action.
A Legacy That Lives On
Arline's life's work will influence our soundscape for years to come—especially these pioneering accomplishments:
proving that excessive noise harms learning—and helping to fix it;
helping strengthen New York City’s Noise Code to protect public health;
authoring books and articles to inform and shape views, including Why Noise Matters and the children’s book, Listen to the Raindrops;
mentoring students, scientists, and activists across the globe; and
co-founding International Noise Awareness Day, now recognized worldwide.
Honoring Her Memory
This year, and in years to come, CHC will honor Arline’s legacy by continuing to advocate for quieter classrooms, healthier cities, and respect for the simple human right to peace and quiet. As Arline often reminded us: “If you respect your neighbor, you don’t make unnecessary noise. Respect is key.”
Thank You, Arline
Thank you, Arline, for your courage, brilliance, compassion—and for reminding the world that quiet isn’t silence. It’s dignity, health, and possibility. May her memory be a blessing.
Please share with us your memory of Arline.