Averett University comes together to mourn the loss of psychology professor

DANVILLE, Va. (WDBJ) - Averett University is coming together to mourn the loss of a beloved professor.

Dr. David Hanbury was reported missing over the weekend while attending a psychology conference in Orlando, Florida.

Orlando Police say the 38-year-old was found dead at a club Saturday. Hanbury was a professor of psychology for over eight years at Averett University. He also received the 2022-2023 Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year award.

“He was missing and then the unthinkable news came later in the day that he had passed,” said Dr. Tiffany Franks, president of Averett University. “So, we are coming together to grieve together and to give comfort to one another. It has been a very tough two days.”

Students, faculty and staff are remembering Dr. Hanbury by placing flowers, cards, and letters near his office. Some noted Dr. Hanbury as their favorite professor and others thanked him for his support.

“He was so kind. He was gentle. He had a warm spirit. He had this unique, rare ability to make each and every person know that they matter and that they belong. He embodied that Averett spirit of what it means to truly be there for students,” added Dr. Franks.

Averett faculty members met with his students Monday morning to give them a shoulder to lean on.

“It certainly wasn’t about the homework that’s due on Friday or the test that’s just around the corner. It was not about any of that. It was about being there for our students, helping them make meaning of this, and to begin that grieving process and to know that they are not alone,” said Dr. Tiffany Franks.

Dr. Franks says Averett has counseling services available to students who may be struggling.

His death is still under investigation to determine the cause, but police say it does not appear suspicious.

“He will just be so dearly missed by this entire Averett University family and he will live on and all the lives of those that he touched,” said Dr. Franks.

Averett held a prayer and support gathering for him Monday night. Hundreds of people including students, staff, and family members were there. They prayed, lit candles, and took turns speaking about his life.

People we spoke with say Dr. Hanbury was a great professor and friend.

“I think it only shows how much people loved him, what a great person Dr. Hanbury was, and how much he did for everyone,” said Maiju Hyvarinen, Averett University student. “I think this shows how much he cared about us.”