Document Type
Interview
Publication Date
5-16-2025
Abstract
Raised in both California and Washington, Dr. Willemsen knew early on that she wanted to become a psychology professor. She pursued her academic path entirely at Stanford University, earning her bachelor's through a Ph.D. in Psychology. In 1970, she joined the Psychology Department at Santa Clara University—just five years after its founding—becoming the third female faculty member ever hired. Over the years, her passion for faculty-student research flourished, with a primary focus on developmental psychology. One of her most beloved courses is PSYC 155: Psychology and Law, which she co-teaches with her husband. Her advice to the Santa Clara community? “You’re young—go learn Shakespeare and a new language.”
Recommended Citation
Zhu, Cindy, "Dr. Elenaor Willemsen, Professor of Psychology, Emerita" (2025). Living History Project: Stories that connect generations. 11.
https://scholarcommons.scu.edu/living_history/11
Comments
Interviewer: Cindy Zhu - Gerontology minor