In Memoriam: Carol R. Hartman
The following is a lightly edited verison of an obituary written by Dr. Hartman's friend and colleague Connell School of Nursing Professor Ann Burgess.
Boston College Connell School of Nursing Professor Emeritus Carol Ruth Hartman, a pioneering force in psychiatric nursing who taught at BC from 1967 to 1995, died earlier this month.
After earning a doctorate in nursing science 1967 under the mentorship of June Mellow, a pioneer in nurse psychotherapy, Dr. Hartman joined the faculty at Boston College as an assistant professor. She was promoted to associate professor in 1969 and full professor in 1987. During her tenure, she initiated and developed the graduate psychiatric nursing program receiving several grants to train hundreds of advanced practice nurses, leaving behind a legacy of students who continue to champion her philosophy of community-based care for vulnerable populations.
Dr. Hartman’s early work and writings focused on the care of children with mearolntally ill parents. At the Massachusetts Mental Health Center, she collaborated with Henry Grunebaum on an innovative joint admission program for psychiatrically ill mothers and their young children. As the nurse-clinician for The Intensive Nursing Aftercare Project, Dr. Hartman supervised a team of specially-trained psychiatric nurses who provided the nursing intervention.
Expanding her research into areas such as post-traumatic stress disorder, crime victimization, and child sexual abuse, Dr. Hartman’s work had a profound impact on understanding trauma and its effects on children, families, and communities. Her collaboration on studies of very young victims highlighted the importance of addressing trauma in its earliest stages.
Carol Hartman (File photo/Kristin Vizvary)
She is remembered by her colleagues and students as a mentor, a “force” in her field, and a master of the “Dynamic Formulation”—a concept she used to help graduate students understand their patients. Known for her humor, wisdom, and no-nonsense approach to academia, Dr. Hartman was a steady hand and a tireless advocate for children with mentally ill parents.
Dr. Hartman’s life was marked by her unwavering dedication to compassion, intellect, and service.
Born in 1930 in Albany, California, her formative years in Northern California were filled with cherished memories, particularly fishing with her father—a pastime that would instill in her a love for nature and a deep connection to her roots.
Dr. Hartman began her nursing education at Samuel Merritt School of Nursing, earning an RN. With a passion for serving her country, she enlisted in the United States Army during the Korean War, where she served as a 1st Lieutenant stationed in Puerto Rico and received a medal. Her time in the military not only honed her skills as a nurse, but also deepened her commitment to the well-being of others.
Dr. Hartman continued her education at the University of California-Los Angeles, where she earned BS and MS degrees in psychiatric nursing. Her academic and professional journey took her across the country—from North Dakota to Appalachia in West Virginia, and finally to Boston.
In her retirement, Dr. Hartman continued to make a difference. She was a dedicated member of the Super Sleuths, an international and interdisciplinary group focused on solving cold cases involving missing and murdered victims. Her forensic work with victims of abuse and trauma led to her appearance in the 2024 Hulu hit docuseries Mastermind, where her insights and commentary were invaluable.
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Hartman was an avid reader and built a third floor in her home to house her extensive collection of books. She had a deep love for animals, particularly cats, caring for many, including feral cats in her neighborhood.
She was also an enthusiastic bridge player, a passionate golfer with the Fairway Ladies, a dedicated fisherwoman, and a martial arts aficionado who earned a second-degree black belt. Her diverse interests and talents reflected her dynamic personality and her love for life.
Dr. Hartman’s legacy in psychiatric nursing is profound. She was an inspiration during the formative years of the field, and her work continues to influence the care of children and families. She was a beloved friend, mentor, and advocate, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her—especially by her family, friends, colleagues, and dearly loved cats.
Her contributions to psychiatric nursing will be remembered, and her impact on the lives of those she touched will endure.