The aim of this paper is to provide an interpretation of the consequences of the extinction of the University of Federal District (UDF) to the field of education. The extinction of UDF occurred in a period in which the field of education was in a process of institutionalization, particularly referring to the social role of educators and their training process. The paper departs from Anisio Teixeira's conception of the role of intellectuals, both as leaders and as educators. This conception which was advanced by Anisio Teixeira during the 30's was at the root of UDF's educational experience.