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The family of George W. Pearsall uploaded a photo
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
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Laurie Conner posted a condolence
Sunday, March 13, 2016
I was shocked and saddened by the passing of the man I consider my mentor in engineering. George Pearsall was all the man, educator, renaissance man and friend that others have so eloquently described. What many people don't know is that he was one of the first supporters of women in engineering. He was in this way truly a pioneer, and not just at Duke, but across the nation.
George (or Dr. Pearsall, as I still like to refer to him) and I crossed paths during my freshman year at Duke. I came to Duke in 1972 as a French major, thinking of a career in the foreign service perhaps. I was contacted by the Dean's Office at the School of Engineering in my freshman year to see if I'd be interested in learning more about the engineering field through several evening programs. I accepted, not having much knowledge of the field. One program described the different engineering fields, the second one discussed engineering and ethics, and the final program talked about how engineering connected with art. Remember this was 1972!!
I was completely sold, and called my folks a few weekends later and told them I was switching from French to Civil Engineering at the end of my freshman year. George Pearsall was the inventor, architect and presenter (along with others) of this program. I am forever indebted to him for reaching out to me and other young women. As Dean, he singlehandedly started Duke's effort to attract more young women to engineering. There were 2 women engineers in my class. By the time I graduated, there were something like 30-40 women in the freshman class! Astonishing success, really.
The story doesn't stop there. As you might imagine, in the early 70's, there were precious few role models for women in engineering (none at Duke). Dr. Pearsall made himself available throughout the next few years to meet with me when I had second thoughts about my decision - which occurred fairly often! One of many examples of this commitment was when I went to visit him after receiving my first Physics grade (the class was Physics 51, and I received a '51' on the first exam!!). He told me how he also did poorly on his first Physics test, and somehow persevered to get through the class, and it didn't define him as an engineer. Another time, I had second thoughts about actually BEING an engineer when I graduated. He told me that no matter what I decided to do for a career, engineering offered lots of opportunities, and I didn't necessarily have to work as an engineer when I graduated. It sounds like straightforward advice, but it was the turning point for me sticking with the rigorous program.
I think often of Dr. Pearsall's contribution to my life. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy lives on in so many Duke engineers.
Laurie Conner
BSE '76
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John Diffey posted a condolence
Monday, February 29, 2016
A former Lambda Chi from Duke here who remembers George and "Charlie" with great fondness, gratitude, and respect. They both were so available to, invested in, and supportive of us all. We all will miss Dr. Pearsall very much and hope that each member of his extended family will be comforted by the expressions of thanksgiving for his life from among the many of us whom he touched as a mentor and friend.,
John Diffey, Duke '70
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Anand Kasbekar posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
Dr. George Pearsall has been a mentor and good friend since I first met him as a freshman at Duke in 1982. One of the smartest individuals I have had the pleasure to know and to work with. He was admired by his students and considered to be one of the best teachers at the Pratt School of Engineering. He was a role model and inspiration with regard to my career path. I will miss his friendship and especially miss his visits to Durham. - Anand
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John Walsh posted a condolence
Monday, February 22, 2016
Peg, I'm so sorry for your loss. I got to know you during my four years at Duke (78-82) and your husband was, by far, my favorite professor and a great mentor. I've thought of the two of you fondly over the years and the news today that George has passed has really dealt a blow. My heart goes out to you.
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William C. Turner, J., EE70, MDiv74, PhD84 posted a condolence
Monday, February 22, 2016
Teacher, friend, mentor. I shall ever cherish his friendship and kindness to me. He gave me a "second chance" when I was conflicted in the swirl of the late sixties, and enabled me to find the steady course that launched me into Christian ministry. Without it, I may well have been one among other "Black Duke Casualties." There are generations who owe him a huge debt of gratitude. Specifically, he was kind to African American students during a day when the Engineering School could be a hostile environment. His youthful exuberance and vitality breathed fresh air into the environment of the "engine house." God bless his memory and legacy.
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Jim Watson posted a condolence
Monday, February 22, 2016
I knew Dr. Pearsall when I was at Duke and a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. Everyone in the fraternity appreciated the friendship and advice that he and his wife gave us. My condolences to his family. Jim Watson
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Joe Coates posted a condolence
Monday, February 22, 2016
I remember having Dr. Pearsall for a freshman engineering course ("the Dean is teaching this class?"), and by the 2nd class meeting, he had all our names memorized... a real wake up call for his philosophy of "make a commitment today." He was a continuing real inspiration as a great man, teacher, and mentor. Charles J. (Joe) Coates, BSME '72
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Kevin Cavanaugh & John Martin posted a condolence
Sunday, February 21, 2016
Our staff is truly privileged to serve the Pearsall family during this most difficult time. We are honored to celebrate George's remarkable life with you on Wednesday.
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