Helen Hart, Remarkable Plant Pathologist (1900–1971)

Helen Hart was a Professor of Plant Pathology at the University of Minnesota from 1924 until retirement in 1966. Born in Janeville, Wisconsin, she died at Grants Pass, Oregon. Her scholarly research concentrated on wheat stem rust to understand host pathogen relationships and to develop rust–resistant cultivars. She did not teach formal courses but was heavily involved in making seminars a vital part of instruction, in teaching languages needed for graduate studies, and as an informal advisor for most rust research theses. She had common sense, excellent scientific judgment, and sound instincts on personnel matters that served the department well. A talented science writer, Hart served as editor of hundreds of theses and departmental manuscripts for publication. Her writing and editing skills were used as associate editor of Phytopathology for two years and as editor-in-chief from 1944–1951. A strong advocate of The American Phytopathological Sociecty, Helen Hart served on Council for 12 years and as President in 1956. Helen Hart was a great professional scientist who had a far-reaching impact on plant pathology during the twentieth century.