Lee, who is chair of the Kirkland HAND program, said the Pfisters were a "quiet but supportive" presence in the House, always participating in House events.

"Whether it be Mrs. Pfister walking around with plastic garbage bags cleaning up after us at the Pizza Study Breaks, ....standing at the door for an hour to greet incoming and outgoing students [during dessert socials]... or letting us go crazy at Incestfest and Shakespeare Night, they demonstrate their caring about Kirkland," Lee added.

When the Pfisters were appointed as masters, Kirkland was known for its high concentration of varsity athletes and low average GPA, according to Kirkland Senior Tutor Mark P. Risinger.

The Pfisters played a large role in the elimination of the "ordered-choice" system of House assignments, a change that eventually led to randomization.

"Kirkland is now a much more balanced place," Risinger said. "It is a congenial place for everyone, and is academically very strong."

Since their arrival, Kirkland has undergone physical change as well. The basement and common spaces have been renovated and the dining facilities have been expanded and modernized.

Pfister said that during their tenure the two saw the convergence of a "wonderful and great community" in Kirkland House.