David Hanbury, a 37-year-old associate professor of psychology at Averett University in Danville, Virginia, was discovered deceased in Orlando, Florida on March 16, 2024, following a missing person report.
Hanbury, who was esteemed for his contributions to the field of psychology, was reportedly in Orlando for the Southeastern Psychological Association Conference near Universal Studios when he disappeared.
The Orlando Police Department stated that they responded to a report of an unattended death at Club Orlando, a private men’s club located near the city center. The body found at the scene was identified as Hanbury’s, though the specific details surrounding his death – including the exact location and cause – were not immediately shared. The police suggested that the circumstances did not seem suspicious, pending the coroner’s report from the Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office.
JJ Hanbury, brother to the late professor, expressed his worries about David’s uncharacteristic silence. David, who was not known for partying, had not called their mother – something he did multiple times a day – and his brother’s calls to him went unanswered. Concerns escalated when David failed to attend a scheduled speech at the conference.
Averett University, a private Baptist institution, confirmed Hanbury’s death via a statement from President Tiffany Franks. The university highlighted Hanbury’s significant influence since he joined the faculty in 2015. He served as co-chair of the psychology department and chair of the Division of Physical and Psychological Health Sciences, earning the Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year award for 2022-2023.
In honor of Hanbury’s life and work, Averett University is organizing a vigil. Franks underscored the shared grief within the Averett community, as well as the support system in place to help everyone navigate this challenging time.
The Orlando Police Department continues to investigate Hanbury’s death, with the goal of shedding light on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Hanbury’s legacy at Averett University and his contributions to academia and the local community are being recognized, as his expertise, mentorship, and kindness have left a lasting impact. The Averett University community is united in mourning and remembering Hanbury’s life and substantial contributions.