Retired Psychology Prof. Frank Finger, a renowned former member of the University faculty, passed away March 31 at the age of 87.
Finger was considered a pioneer in circadian rhythms research, which studies activity patterns that occur in 24-hour cycles. He joined the University faculty in 1942 and retired in 1985.
Finger was a senior faculty member in the psychology department when current Psychology Department Chair Timothy D. Wilson first came to the University.
"He was a role model for the rest of us," Wilson said. "We looked up at him as someone we'd like to be like, very kind, great sense of humor, someone we all admired."
Finger came to the University at a crucial time, when the psychology department was very small with only a few faculty members. He played an important part in the transition from psychology as a new field to one of the most renowned departments at the University, Wilson said.
Finger recently finished compiling a history of psychology at the University, a review of academic departments over the past 50 years from a psychological perspective.
Asst. Psychology Department Chair Donna Hearn remembered Finger as "a gifted individual who shared his gift unselfishly. His contributions to our department are immeasurable."
Finger graduated from Syracuse University in 1936 and received his Ph.D. in psychology from Brown University four years later. The University of Baltimore presented him with an honorary doctorate in 1985.
He participated in the Virginia Psychological Association, the American Psychological Association and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Finger also was an accomplished athlete. He served as one of the University's cross country coaches and later started the wrestling program at the University in 1943. He was part of the wrestling program for 21 years.
"Between ages 60 and 85, he held numerous world records in both hurdles and sprints, and he currently holds world records in 100 and 200 meters for the 80-85 age group," his oldest daughter Elizabeth said.
In addition to his academic and athletic accomplishments, Finger served as part of a Civil Air Patrol during World War II.
Peter Brunjes, associate dean for graduate education and a former chair of the psychology department, said Finger had to stand on top of buildings at night to watch for German bombers during the war.
Brunjes described Finger as a wonderful man who was a major figure at the University.
"First of all, people have to do good, then do good in concert with others," his daughter said, echoing her father's motto.
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