Remembering Dr. Thomas K. Hearn Jr.

I carry with me an important message President Hearn shared with my graduating class in his commencement remarks. He talked about recovering from tragedy and how equilibrium shifts in life. He encouraged us to discover a new "normal," a new state of being that incorporates each experience into our lives.
The Wake Forest community has lost a great leader, and we shall take his charge and redefine our sense of balance, forever remembering his legacy.

— Stephanie Pavlis, '03
August 20, 2008 - 10:05 PM

My condolences on your loss. My wife Joanne was in the same clinical trial and the Video that the hospital made for the research. She passed 18 months ago. I followed Dr Hearn's progress and am deeply saddened at his loss. He will be missed.
My Best to his Family
John E.Barr

— John Barr
August 20, 2008 - 09:20 PM

I was so sorry to hear about Dr. Hearn's passing. He was such a good man.

— 'Elissa Arnold
August 20, 2008 - 08:38 PM

Dr. Hearn led our university with a strong and gentle hand. A leader in academics and in athletics, a true fan and teacher. My best wishes are with his family, we will miss the panoply of talents that he lent to Wake Forest.
Rest in Peace, you have labored long and now rest is yours.

— Mike Champlin \'75
August 20, 2008 - 08:26 PM

When our son entered Wake Forest in 2000, Dr. Hearn greeted parents at a reception. I was so impressed that he shook so many hands, and took a minute with each person. I will always be grateful for the warmth he showed. At that moment I became a Wake Forest supporter. I felt his leadership. God Bless the Hearns and the Wake Forest family.

— Hanne Denney
August 20, 2008 - 08:21 PM

Dear Hearn Family:

I was sad to hear the news about the passing of Dr. Hearn. He was a well-respected and strong leader at Wake Forest University. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Sincerely,
Devra Lynn Rafeld '90

— Devra Lynn Rafeld
August 20, 2008 - 07:38 PM

I will always remember Dr. Hearn's leadership as a microcosm of Wake Forest: local enough to always make time for students like myself, yet broad enough to effectively build the types of wider relationships that have helped further the reputation of our beloved alma mater. My thoughts are with Laura and their family.

Jamey Spencer '97

— Jamey Spencer
August 20, 2008 - 06:26 PM