Dear graduate student community members in Art and Archaeology of the Mediterranean World, Ancient History, Anthropology, Classical Studies, History of Art, Near East Languages and Civilization, and the Penn Museum:
We are devastated to share the difficult news of the death of your friend and classmate, G. Maurice Harton. Maurice passed away in his off-campus residence this week.
Maurice, 35, was a first-year doctoral student in Art and Archaeology of the Mediterranean World. He earned bachelor’s degrees in Art History and Classics from the University of Maryland, College Park, and a master’s in Art History from the University of Texas. Maurice wrote his master’s thesis from the perspective of slaves working in the Roman palaces of Nero and Augustus.
“In the short time that Maurice was with us, he made a deeply positive impression on all of us as a highly intelligent, hard-working, and affable young person,” said Professor Tom Tartaron, Chair of the graduate group in Art and Archaeology of the Mediterranean World. “Maurice was particularly interested in studying the architecture of the Hellenistic and early Roman East, and was busy making plans for summer fieldwork and reading German. He was a cherished member of the AAMW community, and we will miss him very much. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family and friends.”
Maurice is survived by his father, George Maurice Harton IV; three sisters, Ruth Kennedy, Yvonne Towfighi, and Wendy Benner; and his stepmother, Margie Harton. His mother, Ellen Sampson Harton, preceded him in death in 2016, and Maurice dedicated his master’s thesis to her.
“Maurice just loved studying history and architecture,” his father shared. “He loved God’s creation” and was active in his church. After college, Maurice attended Capital Bible Seminary in Maryland, now known as Capital Seminary & Graduate School, then taught science for three years in Brazil.
“Maurice’s intellectual curiosity was expansive and passionate,” said Ralph Rosen, Professor of Classical Studies, “and he conveyed this passion with a warm and energetic spirit. We are all devastated to have lost not only a remarkable mind, but a lively, generous presence as well.”
We share your sorrow in processing this difficult loss. Now, and always, please know that your extended Penn family is here to comfort and support you.
If you want to talk to someone at the University of Pennsylvania:
• Professor Tom Tartaron, Chair of the graduate group in Art and Archaeology of the Mediterranean World, is available to work with students in the graduate group who need academic support. He can be reached at 215-573-5887 or tartaron@sas.upenn.edu.
• Counseling and Psychological Services (215-898-7021; 3624 Market St., first floor) is available to all students. Any student can speak to a trained clinician immediately by walking into CAPS during business hours or calling 215-898-7021 24/7.
• The University Chaplain’s Office (215-898-8456; 240 Houston Hall) provides pastoral support, informal advising, and counseling to students in need of care and comfort, “to be a shoulder, to be an ear, to be a friend, to be a fellow sojourner, to be an advocate, and a faithful presence.” The Chaplain’s Office works with faith communities and campus ministers who also provide spiritual support. Students of all faiths are warmly welcomed.
• The Division of Public Safety’s HELP line (215-898-HELP/215-898-4357) is a 24/7 service that connects Penn students, staff, faculty, and families with appropriate resources.
• Faculty or staff on campus whom you know and trust can offer support.
If you don’t feel well:
• Student Health Service (215-746-3535; 3535 Market St., first floor) offers comprehensive primary care, including services to help you eat well, sleep well, and reduce stress.
If you aren’t sure where to go or you’re concerned about a friend:
• Student Intervention Services (215-898-6081; 3611 Locust Walk) supports students in crises, helps students access resources, and responds to concerns about students' well-being.