“Real Housewives of New York” star Alex McCord and husband Simon van Kampen were known for their passion for turning out a look back on the show, but her latest fashion statement might be the most meaningful of all.
The reality star donned a cap and gown to celebrate a major milestone: her PhD graduation. And yes, she got glam for the occasion.
Alex Went Back to School to Study Clinical Psychology
McCord shared the news on Instagram, posing for photos with her beaming family, including sons Johan and Francois all grown up.
The couple left reality television (and Brooklyn) behind, moving to Simon’s native Australia. While enjoying some time out of the spotlight, McCord got hard at work on her new career. She completed her Master of Professional Psychology at the University of New England in Armidale, Australia, in 2020, and decided to continue her education at the same institution.
The author successfully defended her dissertation last November, but “Real Housewives” fans know the importance of a good party. McCord shared the update and her anticipation of the graduation ceremony on Instagram at the time, writing, “Degree of Doctor of Philosophy, Clinical Psychology= conferred!! Of course there will be an in-person ceremony with a big hat and much celebration next May, but for now…IT’S DONE!”
Clearly, the former Brooklynite is excelling in her career pivot, having already won an award for her work. In 2020, McCord shared on Instagram that, in addition to being published in a peer-reviewed journal, the article won an award from the Australian Psychological Society for Excellence in Aging research.
McCord is the second Housewife to earn her PhD, joining “Real Housewives of Potomac” star Dr. Wendy Osefo in the elite ranks.
Bravolebs Are Celebrating Her Achievement
Congratulations from her fellow reality stars are pouring in, with McCord’s adoring husband leading the charge. Van Kampen commented, “I could not me more proud now more in awe of Alex and her amazing smarts, tenacity and just her being a damn fine human working to make life better for others. She’s wow just wow!”
Luann de Lesseps, who recently brought McCord on stage as the special guest of her cabaret in Brisbane, offered her praise. “Congratulations! I am such a proud housewife right now😮👏❤️,” wrote the Countess.
Any drama between the two is clearly in the past, with the pair even recreating one of their iconic scenes when de Lesseps quipped, “Even Louis Vuitton makes mistakes.”
Former castmate Jill Zarin also chimed in with her kudos, commenting, “Con👏👏👏gratulations!!!!!!”
Alex Will Be Back on Our Screens Soon
While McCord won’t be joining OG “Real Housewives of New York” fans alum as a cast member of their new series, “The Golden Life,” she will be making a highly anticipated return to Bravo.
Taking a victory lap after completing her PhD, the newly minted Doctor of Clinical Psychology returned stateside to film “The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip: Roaring 20th.” McCord hopped on the East Coast leg of the road trip, which brought together Housewives across the franchises with stops by Bluestone Manor and the Big Apple. The show is set to premiere later this year, so we’ll see how McCord’s newfound expertise in psychology helps her navigate the ladies’ big personalities.
