In memoriam László Bernáth

In deep, dreadful sorrow shall come the devastating news of László Bernáth, a 70-year-old professor of the Faculty of Education and Psychology at ELTE, who has departed this life.

Our beloved colleague had been a major part of ELTE for more than 30 years. At first, as a member of the Faculty of Humanities; followingly, of the Teacher Education Department; finally, of the School Psychology Department, then the Counselling and School Psychology Department of The Faculty of Education and Psychology ever since its foundation.

Having been an eagerly devoted educator, he taught psychology along with mathematical statistics, which played a prodigious part in psychologist training at bachelor and master levels; together with general and developmental psychology in teacher education in addition to further teacher training, where he was in charge of the courses of developmental pedagogy beyond having been a teacher of such area as well.

Above his remarkable methodological and statistical wisdom, his creativity, his logical ability, his co-operative skills, renowned wide scientific knowledge of his made him an essentially integral part of research groups throughout the years. 

Notably, he succeeded in presenting a rich heritage in terms of both scientific and pedagogic work of art at our university, at the University of Pécs, at the Hungarian Dance University likewise. As one of the most popular presenters, his lectures were held to a full house. He might be described as strict, humorous, consistent as well as fascinatingly immersive, which are all bound to serve sound reasons for having become a supervisor for an absolute abundance of students. He had constantly strived for practical knowledge, for it being applicable. He had also fought for making the aims of teaching be constantly considered whilst for inspiring his attendees to seek to establish effective teaching methods. His quality of teaching mathematical statistics was quite exceptional since he managed to make any negative attitudes vanish; to vividly explain mathematical problems simply in parallel.

Besides the countless awards, acknowledgement and alike, for his supreme scientific work over the years; he was given a medal of Pál Ranschburg in 2023 by the Hungarian Psychological Association.

Laci Bernáth had been an outstanding associate. He had always been ready to help others. His open and co-operative personality contributed to forming a supportive plus inspirational working environment. His innovative ideas just as much as his enthusiasm had led to revolutionary ways both within the sphere of teaching and research. Not only had he shown immense empathy towards his partners, but he had demonstrated avid attentiveness either professionally or humanly. An ideal role model. Neither his joyful joviality, nor his naughty smile can ever be forgotten.

Dearest Laci, your precious presence must be missed for good.