Monday, February 17, 2025
Dr. Gloria Singer, a trailblazing psychiatrist born on Dec. 25, 1924, in the Bronx, has lived a life marked by fortitude, determination, and a lifelong love of music. From her early days as a pianist to breaking barriers in the medical field, her journey is a testament to perseverance in the face of adversity.
Singer’s initial career path began in health care as an electrocardiogram technician at New York Hospital. Her expertise and knowledge of this noninvasive testing device, which records electrical signals in the heart to detect and diagnose rhythmic irregularities, quickly earned her the role of supervisor of the Cardiac EKG department.
She also served as a nurse’s aide at Payne Whitney Psychiatric Hospital, further solidifying her commitment to the medical profession. These early experiences in patient care laid the foundation for her future endeavors and demonstrated her unwavering passion for helping others.
Inspired by the presence of female medical students, Singer, at the age of 29, decided to pursue her own career in medicine. However, despite the few who managed to break through gender barriers at the time, the 1950s still posed significant obstacles for women. Medical schools in the United States only admitted a few women and her Jewish upbringing and status as an older applicant only compounded these challenges. Despite her impressive qualifications and dedication to medicine, she spent the next year applying to medical schools across the country without success.
This rejection would only strengthen her resolve, leading her to make a bold decision that would change her life forever. Seeking to fulfill her dream, Singer resigned from her position at the hospital and directed her focus overseas, where opportunities for women in medicine were more accessible.
Her unwavering determination led her to the University of Zurich in Switzerland, a non-English-speaking institution known for its progressive attitude towards female medical students.
Posed with yet another challenge, Singer adapted by teaching herself German to succeed in her studies. Mastering a new language while pursuing an intensive medical curriculum required exceptional effort, but she persevered, earning her medical degree in 1967.
Upon her return to the United States, Singer faced the daunting task of meeting the stringent requirements necessary to practice medicine and enrolled in a course for foreign medical graduates. The program was designed to ensure that international medical graduates met U.S. standards.
Following this, she completed her residency at Creedmoor State Hospital in Queens Village, where she gained hands-on experience in psychiatry. Her hard work culminated in a successful career spanning more than two decades.
Singer served as a licensed psychiatrist for 25 years, making significant contributions to both the state and city court systems. Her work helped countless individuals navigate mental health challenges, underscoring her commitment to improving lives through compassionate care. Her achievements were a reflection of her tireless work ethic and her ability to overcome systemic barriers.
Outside of her professional life, Singer maintains a lifelong passion for music, particularly the piano and classical compositions, which have remained a source of joy and solace for her.
Whether she was playing intricate compositions, or simply enjoying the works of renowned composers, music remained an integral part of her identity. This enduring love for the arts enriched her life and served as a reminder of the importance of pursuing personal passions alongside professional aspirations.
To celebrate her 100th birthday, a special event was held at Maple Pointe Assisted Living in Rockville Centre, where she currently resides. During the celebration, she was presented with an official citation from Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman in recognition of her extraordinary contributions and achievements.
