Phoebe Kazdin Schnitzer ’60

Wellesley’s superb psychology faculty made a decisive influence on my life.

Professor Claire Zimmerman first captured my interest in her “Intro” course. Professor Irene Pierce Stiver, who was also the psychology department director at McLean Hospital, taught “Abnormal” while conveying her commitment and sophisticated understanding of mental illness.

But it was child psychology professor Thelma Alper who recognized my interests. She arranged a research assistantship for me, which resulted with my name on a publication and a presentation at an international conference.

In 1960 I began the doctoral program at the Harvard Social Relations Department, obtaining my Ph.D. in 1966. To this day, I believe my acceptance there was possible because of Professor Alper’s recommendation.

My career in clinical psychology continues to this day, as does my gratitude for the educational support I was fortunate enough to receive at Wellesley.