[1] Turney studied dance with Nancy Hauser and received her B.A.

After graduation, she moved to New York City with her friend Mary Hinkson, who joined the Martha Graham School.

Her statuesque eloquence made her a standout member of Graham’s company, and is best evidenced in her role as the Pioneer Woman in the ballet Appalachian Spring.

She worked with other choreographers including Alvin Ailey, Donald McKayle, Pearl Primus, and Paul Taylor.

[1] Turney was married for a time to the television reporter Bob Teague with whom she had one child.