91-year-old professor goes viral as he teaches remotely during the pandemic
A 91-year-old college professor who was photographed while teaching during the pandemic is getting lots of love on social media.
Earlier this month, Julia Krohn of Houston, Texas, recorded video of her father, Charles Krohn, a professor of English at The University of St. Thomas for 50-plus years, as he navigated remote learning.
She also snapped a picture and posted it on Facebook where thousands shared and commented -- many of whom are former students of Krohn's -- dating back to the 1960s.
"[There were] all these memories of him in the classroom and how they may not remember much about St. Thomas, but they remember so much about Professor Krohn ... that he's the most kind-hearted, most compassionate person you'll ever meet," Julia told "Good Morning America."
Krohn and his wife Chesley have been married for 54 years. The couple have four children and six grandchildren. Krohn loves reading, classic films and teaching, of course.
"He's an actor as well so that has gone hand and hand in his teaching," Julia said. "He's just so lively and it's like watching a performance."
Houston's University of St. Thomas has adopted an e-learning model amid COVID-19.
When Krohn was having computer troubles, Julia invited her dad to her house so he could use hers.
Julia said she hadn't seen her dad teach in 20 years and was so struck by his presence.
"The fact that [he's teaching] virtually and still engaging and so smart and so quick ... it was just this beautiful moment that I just had to capture," she added.
Julia said her mom made her father read every single Facebook comment, which made him tear up.
"Professor Krohn was my UST English professor in Fall ‘92 and Spring ‘93," one former student wrote. "And right now he is my daughter’s UST English professor."
"He taught me so much & opened up a new world of literature," another commented. "His passion and dedication were not unnoticed. I’ll never forget my experience w/ Krohn."
Julia said her father's computer has since been repaired and he hasn't missed a beat.
