Dr. Jack C . Turner Endowed Scholarship

The Dr. Jack Turner Scholarship was established by family, friends, and colleagues of Dr. Turner. Jack developed a love for nature at a young age and became an enthusiastic Cub Scout turned Boy Scout. With his scout-leader father by his side, he earned the title of Eagle Scout along with the bronze, silver, and gold palms. Jack’s love for the outdoors was evident in his life’s work and hobbies.
Jack began his biological career in the sciences at California State University at Fullerton where he received his BA in biology in 1966, and his MA in zoology in 1969. He earned his PhD in 1973 at the University of California, Riverside, and did his research on Big Horn Sheep at the Deep Canyon research station in Palm Desert, California, from 1969 through 1973. Jack experienced an exciting career with 45+ years of research experience. His diversity of work included studies for the U.S. Department of Defense regarding nerve agent effects on big-game wildlife in Utah, Lyme disease studies in Texas on deer herds; and an Archaeological Study for Camp Navajo which provided the basis of a federal law abetting Native American land entitlements. Jack moved to Huntsville, Texas in 1987 and became a tenured professor at Sam Houston State University (SHSU). He advanced to assistant dean of the College of Health Sciences. Among his most recognized accomplishments at SHSU was his leadership in building the foundation for the allied health programs. He was instrumental in the School of Nursing from its inception until his retirement in 2017. Jack’s caring nature led him to provide one-on-one counseling and guidance for each nursing student who came through the nursing program.