EIU Department of Psychology

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William G. Kirk, PhD

Dr. Kirk, a Chicago native, studied Psychology at Quincy University (BA) and Illinois State University (MA). Prior to getting his doctorate at Kansas, he worked as both a school and mental health professional. These experiences proved to be significant in helping to shape his career and interests.

Dr. Kirk's primary areas of research included suicide predisposition in the adolescent population, family adjustment to suicide, and the dynamics and treatment of eating disorders. He considered the pinnacle of his creative work to be his book "Adolescent Suicide: A School Based Approach to Assessment and Intervention," published in 1993. It was written to assist teachers and school professionals address and prevent youth suicide.

Dr. Kirk reorganized and coordinated the graduate program in Clinical Psychology in the 1990's and directed that program for many years. He and Dr. Havey co-founded the Maastricht (Netherlands) Study Abroad Program, which continues to thrive.

During his tenure at EIU, Dr. Kirk was the recipient of three Psi Chi Teacher awards and the College of Science Lawrence Ringenberg Award for exceptionality in scholarship, teaching and service during one's academic career. Dr. Kirk was also awarded the Distinguished Faculty Award (2003) for 'outstanding achievement in teaching, research and service' by the EIU Faculty Senate. He is equally proud of the many Psychology alumni who have gone on to illustrious careers in clinical practice, academia and various professional areas.

Years of Service 

1975-2003

Graduate Degree

University of Kansas (1978)