Dean of the College Harry R. Lewis '68 wrote in an e-mail message that the Pfisters, like previous masters who have stepped down, have "shaped the experience of thousands of undergraduates."
"It has been an remarkable tenure," Lewis said.
Long-term masters in Lowell, Leverett and Adams houses have all stepped down in recent years. At the end of this year, the Eliot House masters will be leaving as well. Their resignation was announced earlier this year.
The College is currently searching for new Eliot House masters, and Lewis will visit Kirkland to gather input on what that House needs as the search for the Pfisters' replacements begins.
Though Risinger said he is sad that he will no longer be working with the Pfisters, the senior tutor said that perhaps the change is beneficial for them.
"]The Pfisters] each have active interests in their fields, which they will have time to pursue," Risinger said. "It is exciting that they are moving into a new phase of their life, though they will be sorely missed."