How Howard T. Silverstein, PhD, DC, Shaped Generations of Chiropractic Students

For nearly six decades, Howard T. Silverstein, PhD, DC, has influenced how the sciences are taught, administered and experienced by aspiring chiropractors. His career has intersected the fields of chemistry, chiropractic and higher education in ways that shaped generations of students. Recently, this legacy earned him recognition as a Top Professional by Marquis Who’s Who. Before retiring as the laboratory supervisor at Perimeter College at Georgia State University, he wrote manuals, held numerous administrative positions and led institutions through complex transitions.

A System Mindset in Higher Education

Science education has long faced a practical challenge. Institutions have had to navigate maintaining rigor while adapting to new students, new standards and changing academic structures. Dr. Silverstein built his career solving those problems. He understood that strong systems matter as much as intense instruction. Moreover, he realized students succeed best when structure and empathy work together.

Dr. Silverstein's perspective guided his work for nearly 30 years at Palmer College of Chiropractic. There, he moved fluidly between teaching, administration and research leadership. He helped organize the registrar’s department and oversaw graduations and campus ceremonies. Eventually, he became chair of the physiology and chemistry department and director of research. Each role required attention to detail and an ability to support faculty and students navigating demanding programs.

An Unexpected Start Into Chiropractic Education

With a doctorate in chemistry, Dr. Silverstein had no plans to become a chiropractor. However, when the Palmer College of Chiropractic hired him to teach chemistry, his aspirations would change. A supervisor encouraged him to take a few courses to better understand student needs. The suggestion led him to complete the entire chiropractic program and earn a Doctor of Chiropractic in 1976.      

Although Dr. Silverstein entered the field unexpectedly, his commitment to ensuring students grasped the material was deliberate. Over time, his responsibilities expanded as his leadership skills emerged. He earned trust by listening, solving problems and making himself available when others needed help.

Academic Tools Designed to Support Students

Later in his career, Dr. Silverstein spent a decade as a laboratory supervisor at Perimeter College at Georgia State University. Chemistry labs are specialized environments where safety, preparation and experimentation are essential. As an overseer of daily operations, he ensured the laboratories ran smoothly and classes had the tools they needed.

One of Dr. Silverstein’s most lasting contributions was writing and editing laboratory manuals. After his retirement in 2009, these materials remained in use for several years. This impact speaks to the quality and practicality of his work. He also contributed to laboratory manuals at Palmer College. Additionally, he helped guide the institution through a transition to a new academic calendar, which required careful coordination across departments.

Service to Science Beyond the Classroom

Dr. Silverstein's dedication extended beyond formal roles. He has been a member of the American Chemical Society for more than 50 years and served as chair of the Iowa-Illinois Local Section. He also evaluated chiropractic colleges for an accrediting agency for eight to 10 years. In this capacity, he helped maintain standards across the profession.

Community service has been another constant. Dr. Silverstein volunteered for many years at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis and supported the Science Olympiad at Georgia Perimeter College for more than 15 years. His contributions earned him induction into the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels, the state's highest honor.

A Legacy of Leadership, Values and Kindness

Colleagues and students remember Dr. Silverstein as someone who enjoys working with people and was always willing to help. He valued cooperation over recognition and believed success should lead to more smiles. He attributes much of his professional and personal success to the steadfast support of his wife, to whom he has been married for nearly 60 years.

Now retired, Dr. Silverstein plans to remain active in professional volunteer organizations while continuing to care for his wife. His career stands as an example of quiet leadership, thoughtful systems and genuine care. As a result, he has left a lasting mark on education and the community alike.

About Marquis Who’s Who^®:Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who’s Who in America^®, Marquis Who’s Who^® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who’s Who in America^® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms worldwide. The suite of Marquis^® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who’s Who^® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.