BETH MEISTER RETIRES

Director of Counseling Services Beth Meister Retires after 40+ years

Dr. Beth Meister (or as the kids say: Dr. Beth) has been a pillar of strength at Brimmer for over 42 years, having started as a part-time counselor during her doctoral studies. At times during my career as both Associate Head and Head of School, I have asked for Beth’s help when a family or student was having significant difficulty. I always knew that Beth would never leave the side of a child or family in need. She worked the systems at the various hospitals until there was a bed, a place in a program, or a highly skilled person to turn the situation over to. Beth’s skillful ability and training have been a steady help for us at Brimmer, and children have benefitted from her kindness and expertise.

With the ability to direct faculty on the development of a child, deescalate a hottempered preteen, make a fragile ego feel stronger, and provide a safe space for the most vulnerable, Dr. Beth reached out to Brimmer families no matter the day or hour to be sure they were getting the help they needed.

An intellect, a strong voice in the field of child and adolescent development, a friend to many, a support to members of our Mental Health Team, and an avid researcher for socialemotional programs that work, Beth leaves big shoes to fill. A woman of many talents, she rows, dives, travels, cares for her own family, and has been married to a wonderful man who enjoys their many adventures. She has been a pillar of strength for me, our families, our faculty, and most importantly, our students, and we thank her for her selfless commitment to making each person’s life just a little better each day. It is now time for Beth to take on more adventures of her own.

I know she will continue to care for others and will find new ways to use her talents and skills. We wish her many days ahead filled with fun and self-focused fulfillment.

—Judy Guild, Head of School