Remembering Dr. Doris Chernik of New York

1934 – 2022

Photo: Dr. Doris Chernik and director Jacques Africot swimming with children of Orphans International Haiti, April 2007. Credit: Jim Luce.

New York, N.Y. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Doris Ann Chernik, Ph.D. of New York City, peacefully at home on December 20, 2022 at the age of 88. It is hard to put into words how unique and remarkable Doris’ life was. She was decades ahead of her time, having achieved her PhD in clinical psychology in the late 60’s, running sleep studies through the FDA for Hoffman LaRoche in the 80’s and 90’s, while concurrently pursuing her passion for psychology as a couples therapist.

In addition to all her professional achievements, she lovingly raised two children and traversed the globe, first with backpacks along with her beloved husband Vlad in the early 60’s, and later along with their children, losing count after more than 150 countries. This love of travel led to her co-founding an orphanage in Haiti, which would unite her passion for travel with her deep love of children and education. And if all that wasn’t enough, she also thrived as innkeeper of the Cordova B&B on the Jersey Shore for twenty years, where she indulged her love of entertaining and meeting interesting people.

Her adventurous spirit and eternal optimism will always color our memories and will remain an indelible influence in not only our lives but also those of everyone she met. Doris is survived by her brother, Albert, son, Eric (wife Beth), daughter, Nina, grandchildren, Hannah and Graham and many nephews and nieces. As ever the maverick, in lieu of a funeral, Doris has donated her body to NYU Medical School to further scientific research.

Remembering Dr. Doris Chernik of New York (1934 – 2022)