Remembering Alan M. Trevithick: A Life of Impact
Alan M. Trevithick, an esteemed anthropology professor at Fordham University, passed away at 71 after battling lung cancer. Over his 17 years at Fordham, Trevithick was known not just for his exceptional teaching but also for his activism and artistic talents. He inspired numerous students through innovative courses like "Taboo: the Anthropology of the Forbidden" and "Human Sexuality in Cross-Cultural Perspective," leaving a lasting impression on many, including recent graduate Ellen Sweeney, who cherished the profound discussions that continued beyond the classroom.
Educational Journey and Creative Pursuits
Born on November 11, 1952, in Washington, D.C., Trevithick grew up in Vienna, which ignited his lifelong fascination with different cultures. He pursued an extensive education, earning degrees in the history of religion, South Asian studies, and social anthropology. As a Fulbright Scholar, he immersed himself in Indian traditions, leading to a notable monograph on Bodh Gaya, a major pilgrimage site. Outside academia, Trevithick was a gifted artist, musician, and writer, contributing articles to Connecticut publications and working on a novel before he passed away.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Family
Trevithick's influence went beyond his academic contributions. He played a key role in advocating for the fair treatment of adjunct faculty at Fordham and dedicated his time to social justice initiatives at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation. Family was paramount to him; he valued time spent with his wife, Fordham Mathematics Professor Melkana Brakalova-Trevithick, and their sons, enjoying simple pleasures like fishing trips. His gentle curiosity was embodied by his parrotlet, Giuseppe.
A celebration of Trevithick's accomplishments will be held on November 24 at the Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation in White Plains, New York, with both in-person and Zoom options available. In his memory, his family encourages donations to a charity of choice or to help publish his unfinished work, "Raise the City," reflecting his dedication to creativity and storytelling. His wife poignantly remarked that he was "one in infinity," a tribute to the deep impression he made on everyone he encountered.
