In Memoriam: Herschel “Hank” Conner

Herschel “Hank” Conner, former University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications (UFCJC) Telecommunication professor emeritus and well-known Gainesville WUFT radio and television personality and actor, passed away on Aug. 14, he was 86.

Conner began his 37-year tenure at UF in 1966. He produced, directed and hosted many WUFT programs, while also teaching classes in broadcast production. Among the many shows he hosted or co-hosted were “Florida Weekend Gardener” and “Conner Calling.” As an actor, he appeared in the television dramas “Catherine’s Story” (1999) and “Santa Rules” (2007), both directed by his friend retired Professor and former Associate Dean for Undergraduate Affairs James Babanikos. After retiring from teaching in 2003, he continued to host “Conner Calling” weekly on WUFT-FM until 2015.

Conner was preceded in death by his beloved wife Jerre who he collaborated with on two documentaries. The family will hold a memorial event at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you use this link to give in memory of Hank Conner: www.wuft.org/conner. Read the Gainesville Sun obituary here.

Category: College News
Tagged: Hank Conner MPMT WUFT
Subscribe to our News Digest