Linda Branch came to the academic world late in life and earned a B.A. degree in Studio Art, a M.A. degree in Organizational Management, and a M.A. degree in Human Development all after she was fifty-six years old. She is a current Ph.D. student in the HOD program at Fielding Graduate University and she is just beginning her dissertation process.

Linda's topic for her dissertation is the benefits women fifty+ years old receive from their interpersonal relationships with their dogs. The purpose of the topic is to find a gap that can be filled that places the benefits given by dogs to older women in an over-all mental and physical health program.

Linda is a full believer in living life to the fullest in the aging process by getting rid of the stereotype "older" person. As the baby boomers become sixty years old, we are living longer, stronger, and more interesting lives than ever before.

The Creative Longevity and Wisdom Initiative Program at Fielding Graduate University is an ideal program that encourages self-actualizing in all areas and helps to break the stereotype that older people stop learning.
Linda was recently awarded a fellowship in this Initiative program and she is not only honored to be included, but she will be committed to continuing the goals of the program.

Linda would like to start a program that will help older adults to maintain their pets in times of financial need. She sees the value in owning a pet that helps its owner in matters of health, social stability, physical activities, and as a buffer to loneliness.

Linda and her husband, Marv, have lived in Santa Barbara, CA where they have owned a real estate company for over thirty years. She volunteered as an Ombudsman for the Elderly in Long-term care facilities where she helped the older people maintain their rights and dignity. She attributes her respect for the elderly because she was taken in and raised by her 83 year old great-grandmother, grandmother and two great aunts. Every time Linda reaches a new goal, she gives thanks to these wonderful women who raised her.