Born in Buffalo, New York, Floss graduated with a BA degree in Economics and English from Oswego State and then went on to receive a MA and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Buffalo in 1986. Floss is a Professor of Economics and Finance, as well as, the Co-Director of the Center for Economic Education at Buffalo State College where he has taught economics, finance and statistics for over twenty years. He has published in numerous academic journals in the areas of forensic economics, public finance, economic education and international trade.