Susan Pfister '86
After earning her Bachelor of Science in Social Work, Pfister went on to a 36-year career with the Westport Center for Senior Activities.
Susan Pfister grew up in Norwalk with a twin brother, who also went to Sacred Heart. Both started as business majors, but, while he stuck to his original course, she made the switch to social work. After graduation, Pfister went on to Fordham University, where she received her master’s degree in social work with a minor in gerontology – something that would serve her well in her future career.
“When I went to (SHU),” she said, “it was a little red house on the hill. That’s all it was. It was very supportive, very loving, very spirited. And there was a sense of community, and I think that's what drew me into really pursuing the field of social work.”
Which isn’t to say it wasn’t rigorous: Having a respected SHU background allowed her to enter Fordham with accreditation, meaning she earned her master’s degree in only one additional year. “I think that shows the level of intensity of the BSW program at Sacred Heart,” she said.
Pfister began her tenure in Westport with an undergraduate internship with the town’s Department of Human Services. Finding a “good fit,” she never left. Once she attained her master’s, she went back as the director of the senior center and a longtime part-timer in Parks & Recreation.
Pfister was drawn to working with the senior population after weekly trips to visit “Bachi,” her grandmother who lived in a nursing home in Waterbury, while she was at SHU.
I fell in love with connecting with the people, particularly those who were alone or suffering clearly from early onset dementia or Alzheimer's. I felt very comfortable walking into their rooms, holding their hands, chatting with them and I really looked forward to that time. I like the challenges of the intellect and the mind in the body and the soul that I have here at the center.
When considering her legacy, the Fairfield resident speaks of the compassion, commitment and dedication needed for what is truly a ‘round-the-clock position.
“Unfortunately, there are many seniors who really count on you as their family,” she said. “I know I'm supposed to have boundaries, and I do a pretty good job, but I think it's very important to just know that those folks most in need…that you will be there for them. I hope the next person is as accessible and as available as I think I've made myself throughout my career.”
Pfister, who received SHU’s Pioneer Award in 2005, said she’ll miss her seniors and their resilience, wisdom and willingness to lend a helping hand.
“The rewards you get internally from doing your profession are priceless,” she said. “Go with your heart and soul and what makes you feel good as a human being on this very troubled planet.”