David Turkon, associate professor in the Department of Anthropology at Ithaca College, died July 17. 

Turkon’s death was announced to the campus community in a July 19 Intercom post. Turkon worked for the college for 17 years, beginning as an assistant professor in 2005 and receiving tenure in 2009. 

Turkon served as the chair of the Department of Anthropology and was a member of both the Faculty Council and the School of Humanities & Sciences Faculty Senate. Turkon was also involved in organizing the Finger Lakes Environmental Film Festival. 

According to the post, Turkon received nine Certificates of Honor for his outstanding service to Anthropology and African Studies from the Association for Africanist Anthropology. At the college, he taught classes focused on African ethnology, religion and racial relations, as well as environmental studies classes. 

“Professor Turkon will be remembered as an impassioned and outspoken advocate for both faculty and students, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him,” the post stated. 

Support services for students are available through the Ithaca College Center for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) by calling 607-274-3136. Faculty and staff can access the counseling services of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) by calling 1-800-327-2255. The Office of Religious and Spiritual Life has a website dedicated to grief resources.