Psychology Grad Profiles

Chris Carlson, Class of 1987
Chris obtained a Master's degree in human development, counseling, and family studies with a specialization in college student development from the University of Rhode Island in 1990. Since then, Chris has been serving Gordon students in various capacities as Associate Dean of Students with a focus on student life and leadership. Among other things, Chris advises the student government, directs the A.J. Gordon Scholars program and contributes to the residence life and recreation programs at Gordon.

Oliver Lindhiem, Class of 2002
Oliver spent his first postgraduate year and a half working at the Anchorage group home for adolescent boys in Beverly. While there he became interested in the developmental implications of foster home care and the multiple home placements that these children often experience. Oliver is currently in his fourth year of a Clinical Psychology program at the University of Delaware, where he is teaching a research methods course. He has several publications in his name and his master's research is in press. He begins his dissertation this summer and hopes to teach and do research at a college or university when he graduates.

Karen Smith, Class of 1984
Following graduation Karen went to work for a local human services agency that specialized in placing people with disabilities in supervised work settings. Over several years she worked in increasingly responsible positions with the agency, and along the way earned a graduate degree in rehabilitation counseling. She is now working in Chiang Mai, Thailand (as a missionary through International Ministries, ABC/USA) where she is the program director for the New Life Center. The New Life Center serves ethnic minority girls who are victims of labor exploitation and human trafficking, including forced prostitution. Karen's role draws deeply on her vocational rehabilitation, ministry, and leadership skills.