Herman Cohen

Growing up in State College I had many opportunities to spend time with Herman and his family at the Cohen house. It was always fun discussing politics, world events, or sports with Herman because he not only had great insight he also had a great sense of humor. I fondly remember those days and will miss Dr. Herman Cohen. My condolences to his family.

Dr. Cohen was a leader in the Speech Communication Association when I first joined as a junior; he was always warm and welcoming, and incredibly bright and insightful to boot. A great loss!

Herman was the first faculty member I met when I arrived at Penn State as a new graduate student in 1973. I'll never forget his kindness and encouragement. He served as a role model for us all and came the closest of anyone I've ever known to being a "perfect" professor.

I have many memories of the time Herman was a visiting professor in San Jose and of his participation in the International Communication Colloquium. He was a valued colleague and friend. My condolences to his family and colleagues.

When I switched from Political Science to Speech at the University of Oregon, Dr. Cohen was my second professor on that first day. He unveiled the fascinating area of rhetorical theory. With his pipe and tweed jacket, he fit the stereotypical image of a professor, which was reinforced by his level of knowledge, curiosity, and his interest in students. At that moment I knew nothing of his scholarship or professional activity--all I knew is this engagement with such a thoughtful person...

Dr. Cohen was an amazing influence in my academic life. I was a young grad student who was very unsure of myself at the time. I can still remember the day he asked me to read one of his chapters and give him some feedback/advice. My eyes flew wide open as I struggled to understand that this amazing man was asking for my input. I said that surely there was nothing I could tell him that he didn't already know, and he insisted that I was smart enough to process and give feedback. It was that...

Very sorry to hear about Dr. Cohen's passing. When I came to Penn State in 1977 to pursue a Doctorate, I interned in his basic speech course. In addition to learning a lot about teaching from Herman, he also gave me confidence in myself that I could attain my goals. I have not met a more friendly and encouraging person.

Dr. Cohen treated all of his students with respect and kindness. I will never forget our conversations, his gentle prodding to get me to rethink an idea, and, of course, the wonderful matchbook collection that adorned his office. He was the ultimate professor and mentor.

Herman and I (Chris) enjoyed a long and warm friendship, and I will miss him as both a friend and a colleague. He was unfailingly supportive of my scholarly and pedagogical efforts, and I very much enjoyed being able to share new ideas and projects with him. The fact that he and my own father (still living, thank heavens) shared a birthday and birth year created a special bond between us (and, as Herm would say, between him and my Dad), so it is particularly sad to have to say goodbye to...