Dr David Hunt

For over two decades, David Hunt held the role of Biological Anthropology Collections Manager at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History (NMHM), overseeing the Terry Collection and other well-studied skeletal collections. In this position, Dr. Hunt guided hundreds of undergraduates, graduates, young professionals and peers through the steps of their research.

His attention was the same, whether you were a new intern just learning skeletal biology, or an established professional studying for ABFA board certification. He is always encouraging: gently asking questions, eagerly helping with a differential diagnosis, and consistently providing resources for better data collection and analysis.

Additionally, we all know and love Dr. Hunt as a jovial member of the PPA who has enthusiastically supported countless PPA workshops, driving as far as Atlanta, Chicago, Cleveland, and New Orleans (just to name a few meetings) in order to provide the best examples of pathological conditions. At these meetings he can be found taking multiple students out for lunch or limping through a sea of posters to offer his support to a student project.

In short, the research and education of hundreds of individuals has been touched by David Hunt's encouragement, assistance, and support. He quietly retired from the Smithsonian in 2021, but continues to be an influential presence in our field. 

Kristine Pearlstein

Dear Paleopathology Association Community,

I am humbled to be considered part of a list of extraordinary mentors present in the Eve Cockburn Mentorship Award. This list holds such esteemed members of the paleopathology scientific community.  It is overwhelming to be linked with people whom I saw as my mentors during my professional development.  Eve Cockburn was a highly respected figure and a fine lady. I was fortunate to know Professor Cockburn and had the privilege to spend time with her at PPA meetings in the past.   

I am sorry that I was not able to attend the meetings this year to have been able to celebrate this award with you all.  This is certainly unexpected, and with gratitude, is a cherished recognition.     

Respectfully, Dave Hunt