Sam Barkin was a son, a brother, an uncle, a friend, a colleague, a teacher, a student, a mentor, a clown, and countless other things. Sam grew up in California and attended Camp Winnarainbow, a camp for the circus and performing arts, first as a camper, then as a counselor. It was here that Sam first learned about the contagion of happiness and honed his intention to improve the world through love, starting with the lives and well-being of those around him.

Sam truly believed in the therapeutic potential of a loving, creative community and dedicated his life to the creation and sustainment of these communities. Taking an inventory of his personal abilities and desiring to better understand the positive effects of places like Camp Winnarainbow, Sam sought a doctorate in psychology. Sam felt that it was his purpose to substantiate the incredible benefits of camps like his through outcome research. He hoped that through his research, he could expand the use of the camp as a helpful  intervention for children around the world. In no uncertain terms, Sam sought to empirically validate the healing power of love and self-expression.

Living by example, he inspired those around him to be their best selves. Sam loved whole-heartedly, practiced kindliness unreservedly, and expressed his feelings openly. His laughter was infectious, his warmth palpable, and his availability for a conversation and a big hug endless. To have known Sam was to be supported, accepted, and loved. He will always be dearly missed."

The Department of Clinical Psychology and the Teachers College community will endeavor to uphold Sam's virtues of generosity via the "Sam Barkin Memorial Fund". Contributions and donations to the Fund will support a scholarship, fellowship or research project for one or more master's or doctoral students in Clinical Psychology at Teachers College. 

Our secure form allows you to direct a gift using a major credit card. If you have questions, or have difficulty using this form please email Linda Colquhoun or call 212-678-3679.

Our secure form allows you to direct a gift to our named endowed scholarship using a major credit card. If you have questions, or have difficulty using this form please email Susan Scherman or call 212-678-8176.