Susan Harter

On Wednesday, September 30, 2020, Dr. Susan Harter, a loving mother, friend, aunt, and Professor of Psychology passed away at the age of 81. Over her illustrious career, Susan, a trailblazing Psychologist, earned her Ph.D. from Yale in 1966 and moved to the University of Denver in 1974 where she spent her career. Her groundbreaking research explored the various ideas of self and how individuals can  present different self-images depending on development and environment. As a woman in the male-dominated research field, Susan was a pioneer for her work and known for ignoring the glass ceiling. A trusted leader and mentor, she is now famous for asking many students, colleagues, and friends, “What is your burning question”?

Her body never idle, Susan loved gardening, reading, and dinners with friends at her Colorado mountain home, her sanctuary.  Known for her quick wit, fiery disposition, and curious nature, she planned many evenings steeped in conversations with friends and family around the dinner table.

Susan was preceded in death by her mother Alma Harter, father Donald Lincoln Harter, and brother Var Harter. She is survived by many loved ones including Karen, Rich and Murphy Callahan, Judy and Dave Oakes, Jan and Dan Tucker, many cousins, and her DU family.

Donations in her name may be made to the ​National Organization For Women.

Memorial services for Susan will be held in the summer of 2021.

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