Farewell to László Bernáth
Our colleague was a leading figure at ELTE for thirty years, first at the Faculty of Humanities, then at the Faculty of Teacher Training; then, following the foundation of the independent Faculty of Education and Psychology, he was a core member at the Department of School Psychology, and later at the Department of Counselling and School Psychology.
As a committed lecturer, he played a significant role in the training of psychologists, teaching general psychology and mathematical statistics in the bachelor and master courses, general and developmental psychology in teacher training, and he was also coordinator and lecturer in teacher training and in the postgraduate specialised training course in developmental pedagogy.
His broad scientific knowledge, high methodological and statistical skills, creativity, logical reasoning and cooperative ability made him an indispensable member of many research teams over the years.
Besides his outstanding academic work, he was one of the most popular lecturers not only at our University, but also at the University of Pécs and the Hungarian University of Dance. His lectures and seminars always had a full house. He was rigorous and humorous, consistent and engaging. That is why many students chose him as the supervisor for their theses or scientific student research. He always sought to impart knowledge in an applicable form, to encourage his students to rethink their teaching objectives and to seek effective teaching methods. He was particularly outstanding in the teaching of mathematical statistics, where he was able to break down the negative attitudes often present in students and explain mathematical problems in a simple, clear and straightforward way.
Our colleague received numerous awards and recognitions over the years for his outstanding professional work and high-level scientific activities; in 2023, the Hungarian Psychological Association awarded him the Ranschburg Pál Memorial Medal.
Laci Bernáth was an exceptional colleague. Always ready to help others, his open and collaborative personality contributed to a supportive and inspiring work environment. He pioneered new directions in teaching and research with his innovative ideas and enthusiasm. He was empathetic and considerate to his colleagues, not only professionally but also as a human being. He became a role model. His cheerful nature and mischievous smile will never be forgotten.
Dear Laci, we will miss you very much!
László Bernáth is considered by Eötvös Loránd University as one of its own dead.