Scientist, Educator. He earned a B.A. in physics from Emory in 1881 and immediately became a physics professor at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas and later president. Among his scientific achievements, in 1904 he designed the first wireless station in Texas, transmitting a message over a distance of one mile. He moved to Dallas to become one of the founders of Southern Methodist University , where he served as president from 1911 to 1920. He was also professor of physics at SMU until his death. He designed the campus of SMU, developed the curriculum, hired the faculty, and recruited the students.  Family links:  Parents:  William L Hyer (1834 – 1899)  Laura J Stewart Hyer (1836 – 1874)  Spouse:  Margaret Lee Hudgins Hyer (1867 – 1934)*  Children:  Robert Stewart Hyer (1892 – 1951)*  Margaret Hyer Thomas (1902 – 1995)* *Calculated relationship