Position:

Adjunct Professor

Contact Information:

cfitzgerald@paloaltou.edu

Other Positions:

Adjunct Faculty

Programs:

Masters

Education:

PhD, Applied and Behavioral Science and Higher Education Leadership, Azusa Pacific University (2009)
MA, Applied Behavioral Sciences and Counseling, City University (1993)
BA, Psychology, University of Washington (1979)

Biography:

Dr. Cynthia FitzGerald is an adjunct professor for the Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology Program at Palo Alto University. She teaches courses on child, adolescent, and adult development, and aging and long-term care. Prior to her work at Palo Alto University, she was Dean of Student Services and Dean of Enrollment Management and Student Services at Saybrook University in Kirkland, Washington and San Francisco, California. Dr. FitzGerald also spent over ten years as Director of Educational Support Services and Adjunct Professor at Bethany University in Scotts Valley, California. She has experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist and counseling supervisor, and is skilled in individual, family, and health counseling.

FitzGerald completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Washington, University of California at Berkeley, and her master’s degree at City University. She earned her doctoral degree at Azusa Pacific University, where her dissertation focused on processes involved with fostering resilience in Latina students who succeed in achieving their academic goals. She has engaged in community service through Rotary International, the American Association of University Women, Mary’s Place, and the Santa Cruz Art League and Watercolor Society. She has worked internationally as an art therapist for the Faces of Hope program in Antigua, Guatemala.

Areas of Interest:

Developmental Psychology, Art Therapy, Adolescent Psychology, Gerontology

Selected Publications:

FitzGerald, C.(2009). Fostering resilience in Latina students. Student Affairs West NASPA Region VI, 29(3), 3-4.

FitzGerald, C.(2007, September). Barriers to bridges: Supporting students for success. Retention Success Journal.

FitzGerald, C. (2005). Crossing the border: Mentoring first-generation students. Retention Success Journal.