Jerry Yeric, 81, Professor Emeritus of political science who taught at UNT from 1970 to 2002, died June 2. He earned his bachelor’s degree in history and political science at Western Michigan University and his master’s degree and doctorate in political science at Ohio State University. At UNT he was named an Honors Professor and in 1983 received the ’Fessor Graham Award — the highest honor bestowed by the student body — for his outstanding and unselfish service to students.

With research interests including the effects of the media on American politics and the impact of public opinion on the government, he was the author of Mass Media and the Politics of Change and co-wrote Public Opinion: The Visible Politics with fellow UNT political science professor John Todd. After retiring, Jerry relocated to Hot Springs Village and served on numerous boards and committees in the city and as president of its tennis association. He also enjoyed fishing, kayaking, swimming and local politics.