“Donors, who make a bequest in their Will, give funds for a Charitable or Deferred Gift Annuity, or name Eastern as a beneficiary of a Charitable Trust, will automatically become members of the Claghorn Heritage Society. Eastern's best days are still ahead! This is only the beginning. It is up to us, to work and pray that Eastern will rise to new heights, of usefulness and service to Christ.”

Dr. Claghorn, remarks made during his 90th birthday celebration, December 5, 2009

Investing in the Education of Generations to Come

Dr. George S. Claghorn '44 was a beloved philosophy professor (1951-1965) and Dean at Eastern Baptist College (1954-1961). Many of the early alumni from the college love and respect him for his enthusiasm and dedication to the students, both academically and spiritually.

Dr. Claghorn received his degree in 1944 from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary (now Palmer Theological Seminary of Eastern University). In 1948, he began serving on the EBTS faculty. In 1951 he joined the philosophy department at Eastern Baptist College (now Eastern University). He served as Dean of the College from 1954-1961. Dr. Claghorn was also on the Board of Directors from 1969 to 1978. In 1998 he was awarded the Doctor of Divinity from EBTS. Dr. Claghorn worked as an adjunct professor and served as the Chairman of the Philosophy Department for over 30 years at West Chester University.

Dr. Claghorn was both a dedicated minister and an accomplished author. Early in his journey, during his college years, he served as a summer pastor at the Union Chapel of Villas, New Jersey. His commitment to ministry later led him to hold pastorates in Trenton, NJ, and Ridley Park. Over the years, he took on the role of interim pastor for 36 churches in the tri-state area. In the realm of literature, Dr. Claghorn penned "Mount Up With Wings," a book chronicling Eastern's history, published by the college in 1962. His scholarly pursuits were further evident as he dedicated over 35 years to researching and editing a collection of letters by the renowned theologian Jonathan Edwards (1703-1758), a volume which was published by Yale University Press in 1998.

Dr. Claghorn married Shirley Haines, a secretary in the Dean's Office, on May 28, 1955, on the college campus. Their bond remained strong for nearly 63 years until his passing at the age of 98 on February 5, 2018. Dr. Claghorn's legacy is deeply cherished. His generosity and service have touched the lives of countless alumni, colleagues, churches, and the broader academic community.

Contact

Office of Advancement
Phone: 610-341-5932
Email: advancement@eastern.edu