The inaugural Turner Scholarship was established by Sara Turner, Professor Emeritus of Social Work, to honor the life of her late husband, James D. Turner, who was a Professor of Sociology at Humboldt State from 1970 to 1980. The new scholarship provides an annual award of $1,000 to sociology students in the baccalaureate or graduate program. Mabry is a first-generation college student from Bakersfield. "This scholarship has greatly assisted me in my quest for knowledge and social justice,” he said. “One can only hope to benefit from the work of others, as one can only hope to benefit others' work."
Mabry’s research centers on sustainable food systems and social justice. He is a managing editor of the Humboldt Journal of Social Relations.
During his scholarship year, Mabry is completing his required teaching assistant experience in an introductory sociology class taught by Jennifer Eichstedt, Associate Professor of Sociology. “The intro students and I are very fortunate to have Dustin working with us,” said Eichstedt. “A large lecture of 150 students can be intimidating, but Dustin jumped right in. He is at ease working with students in breakout sessions and he makes himself available outside of class.”
The late Professor Turner joined HSU originally to serve as Vice President of Academic Affairs from 1966 to 1969, when it was Humboldt State College. According to a newspaper account of the time, Turner “demonstrated support for the behavioral sciences, the arts, and particularly for women faculty, then few in number.” He died on October 27, 2003.
“The Department is honored by this gift,” said Mary Virnoche, Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Sociology. “Through making the award to MA students during their teaching experience, we also honor the Turner commitment to the vocation of teaching and social change through education.”
Those wishing to make contributions to the James D. Turner Sociology Scholarship may contact University Advancement at (707) 826-5101 or http://www.humboldt.edu/giving/.