Darin Glass, Editor-In-Chief

A check for $1 million was made out to Appalachian State University Friday by a consistent supporter of ASU: Bob Turchin.

Turchin, who divides his residency between Boone and Miami Beach, Fla., was recognized for his tremendous support of Appalachian State athletics, programs and scholarships at the annual meeting of the Appalachian State University Foundation, held at the Broyhill Inn and Conference Center.

Turchin’s donation to Appalachian could be used for many different projects, such as establishment of university scholarships, or as funding for other projects, including the 1999 centennial campaign.

Turchin is no stranger to giving money to the university.

He and his wife, Lillian, have donated over $185,000 to various university athletic, scholarship and cultural programs.

In 1995, Turchin started a program called Turchin’s Challenge to further raise money for student athlete scholarships.

Through the program, Turchin pledged $1,000 for each game won by the football team, and challenged all others to join him in his support of Mountaineer football.

More than $12,000 was raised in the first year of the challenge, and this year more than $2,500 is donated for each Mountaineer win.

Over $50,000 have been raised since the program’s installment for athletic scholarships.

Turchin’s other involvements at the university include a position as chairman of An Appalachian Summer Advisory Committee, and membership with various organizations, including the Appalachian State University Foundation Board of Directors, the Yosef Club and the ASU Loyalty Fund Drive.

Turchin’s history of involvement at the collegiate level did not begin with his contributions to Appalachian. An alumnus of Tulane University, Turchin is honored in Tulane’s Athletic Hall of Fame for his achievements in both track and football.

Turchin also served as vice-mayor of Miami Beach, Fla.
 

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