Turpin

Purdue University entomologist Tom Turpin is the 2007 recipient of the Frederick L. Hovde Award of Excellence in Educational Service to Rural People of Indiana.

The award, which honors a Purdue staff member for outstanding achievement and service to rural Indiana, is sponsored by the Indiana Farm Bureau and carries with it an $800 cash prize.

“Dr. Turpin is an outstanding educator and communicator, and his service to Indiana agriculture and to his profession is truly representative of what this award is all about,” said Don Villwock, president of Indiana Farm Bureau.

Turpin, who is the driving force behind programs such as Bug Bowl and Insectaganza, was recognized for his efforts to educate thousands of people in various audiences about the importance of insects and the roles they play in agriculture.

“Turpin’s efforts have played an integral role in educating students and the general public about science and the key role insects play in agriculture and the environment,” said Randy Woodson, Glenn W. Sample Dean of Agriculture. “He teaches his materials in fun, creative ways that draw in audiences and really make a difference in the way people perceive the world of entomology.”

In addition to his efforts in the classroom and his work on special events, Turpin has appeared on television and radio shows and as a guest speaker at hundreds of educational programs in nearly every county in Indiana, in more than 30 states and in more than a dozen countries.

He has taught more than 10 percent of the current undergraduate student body about insects, poetry and prose about insects, and agricultural heritage. Turpin, who joined the Purdue faculty in 1971, has served as major professor for more than 20 graduate students.

He also serves on the advisory committees for several educational organizations, including Conner Prairie and Prophetstown State Park.

“Dr. Turpin has an uncanny ability to entertain and educate at the same time, and he does this with seemingly boundless energy,” said Steve Yaninek, entomology department head. “He has been and will continue to be an inspirational role model for our students and an exceptional representative of Purdue in the state of Indiana.”

The Hovde Award is named for the man who served as Purdue president from 1946 to 1971.

Contact Turpin at turpin@purdue.edu