Remembering Dr. Thomas K. Hearn Jr.

I remember listening to him give his opening remarks at the freshman convocation each year. One quote he always used was from a man he met when he first became President who told him, "I don't know you, but I love you because I love Wake Forest." I didn't know him personally but he was loved and respected because of his love, vision and care of Wake Forest.

— Alexa Starr
August 21, 2008 - 09:47 AM

Our deepest condolences.

Shelia Smith-Ankrah
Kwasi Ankrah

Class of 1993

— Kwasi Ankrah
August 21, 2008 - 09:21 AM

I came to Wake Forest during the last year of President Hearn's administration, and even in that short year my peers and I could tell the tremendous impact (and then legacy) that Dr. Hearn had at Wake Forest.
He was also one of the most personable individuals I have ever known. In conversation with you, it was easy to see that he loved engaging with the student population, as well as the faculty and staff. Simply put, TK Hearn made Wake Forest what it is today. He will be deeply missed.

— Christina Chauvenet '08
August 21, 2008 - 09:04 AM

God Bless Dr. Hearn. May he rest in peace.

— Terry Giblin WFU '77
August 21, 2008 - 08:28 AM

Wake Forest rose to national prominence under the leadership of Dr. Hearn. We are all very grateful for his vision and accomplishments. His spirit will continue to stir passion in our hearts for the well-being of Wake Forest University. Condolences go out to the Hearn family and the entire Wake Forest community.

-Chip Sulser, '74

— Chip Sulser
August 21, 2008 - 12:29 AM

Although I graduated in 1985 and never had much opportunity to visit with President Hearn, I was deeply touched by his beautiful writings and the messages he conveyed. He was special and right, of course: we live by grace and grace alone.
I wish you the best in the days ahead.

— Ben Citrin
August 20, 2008 - 11:18 PM

Dr. Hearn's visionary and courageous leadershp was demonstrated in securing autonomy in governance for the University and leading Wake Forest University to be recognized as a "World Class Institution".

Wake Forest, North Carolina and the Nation have lost a spiritual, intellectual and aducational giant.

My sincere prayers and sympathy go to Mrs. Hearn and the entire family.

— Roy J. Smith,'53; former trustee
August 20, 2008 - 10:20 PM