Donald N. Bersoff

Doctor Bersoff was perhaps the first person of school psychology training to become president of the American Psychological Association. A competent, friendly, and major contributor to the broader field of professional psychology.

Working with Don was a pleasure and a privilege. Despite his many accomplishments, he didn´t take himself too seriously. He showed deep respect and appreciation for others, regardless of their status. I am deeply saddened but consider myself lucky to have known him.

In the early days of the American Psychology-Law Society (before it became a division of the American Psychological Association) Don's groundbreaking work, encouragement and ethical integrity demonstrated what was possible and inspired me to complete my doctoral study in psychology and law and to then go on to earn a law degree. He was a kind, involved and excellent mentor and colleague throughout my career in psychology and law. His deep and clear sense of ethics was always with me,...

Don was an outstanding psychologist and lawyer. He educated us all to the importance of the interaction of the two fields. He was thoughtful and gentle. He contributed greatly to the field and moved it forward. My condolences to his family.

I am very sorry for your loss. May his memory be a blessing to you.

He was a great thinker and psychologist who moved the field forward. And a good and kind person. I am deeply sorry that he is gone. May others remember him for all his efforts in psychology. He worked tirelessly.

Don was a remarkable psychologist and lawyer. He made so many contributions to both fields and the American Psychological Association. His work will live on through the positive changes and policies he helped create. I am honored to have served with him and as a former President of the American Psychological Association. Love and light to him and his family.

I worked with Don during his time at the American Psychological Association, first as their legal counsel and later as a volunteer (e.g., Policy and Planning Board, President). It is rare to have a person serve APA as such high levels both as a staff member and later as a volunteer. He was fair, articulate, thoughtful, and a gentleman. He left a legacy and he will be missed.

Don was instrumental in writing the APA Amicus Brief that was responsible for getting Battered Woman Syndrome and research into the courts. He was an incredibly fierce fighter for mentally ill and vulnerable especially children. His work will live on beyond him. May his name be for a blessing. Lenore Walker