Article archive / February 2018
Originally published: . Volume 9, No. 2. Source pages: 14.
The late Dr. George Hearn was honored by Louisiana College in a tree-planting ceremony in front of Alexandria Hall, on January 26.
“Hearn Twin Oaks Ceremony” was a tribute to the long-time professor at the college and hosted family, friends, and colleagues. Gloria Hearn, Dr. Hearn’s widow noted, “The oak tree represents strength, beauty, grace and on-going life.”
“It is incumbent on us to pause for the cause today as we plant trees in memory of one who listened to the valued teachings of our forebears,” and she explained how Louisiana College and its founding by the Baptists helped to provide more education and preparation for the gospel to citizens and families.
Speaking at the Ceremony and representing the Louisiana Psychological Association was Dr. Darlyne Nemeth. Also speaking was Dr. Rick Brewer, President of Louisiana College, Mayor Clarence Fields, and family members including Ms. Gail Hearn Smith.
“It was my great honor to represent the Louisiana Psychological Association and to share with the rather large audience, Dr. Hearn's contributions to the Louisiana State Board of Examiners of Psychologists and the Louisiana Psychological Association,” said Dr. Nemeth. “Dr. Hearn served as Chair of the Board and President of our association. In regard to his service to psychology, Dr. Hearn was given our Distinguished Psychologist Award.”
From 1965 to 2000 George served Louisiana College (Pineville) as Full Professor and Chairman of the Department of Psychology. He also was in independent practice at his firm, Hearn & Hearn, and was known for his skills as mediator in groups and organizations through his work.
His focus in IO Psychology had begun while in graduate school, serving as Assistant to the Head of the Industrial Division, Executive Appraisals and Employee Selection at Baylor University. At Baylor Dr. Hearn also worked in the research projects supporting the NASA Space Program.
He blended his technical knowledge with his enduring respect and faith in people and the course of human events. This early interest was portrayed by his choice of an undergraduate in history, a masters in history, and another masters in theology. Before he returned for his doctorate, Dr. Hearn was an ordained minister, pastor of Laurel Heights and Ford Park Baptist churches in Shreveport from 1948 to 1961.
Dr. Hearn’s willingness to help and give of himself was also apparent in his extensive community service. He was member and president of the Historical Association of Central Louisiana, member and chairman of Rapides Area Planning Commission, and Alderman for Pineville City Council. He served honorably in the United States Navy during World War II. He served on the Louisiana State Board of Examiners of Psychologists from 1982 to 1988, including as chair.
Gloria Hearn (L) with Dr. Rick Brewer, President of Louisiana College, and Dr. Darlyne Nemeth who spoke at the memorial ceremony in honor of psychologist and professor Dr. George Hearn. (Photo courtesy Dr. Nemeth)
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.