Teacher-Scholar Legacies: David Anderson

By Erik Johnson, Chair of Biology

Dr. David Anderson, Professor of Biology, has been a valued member of the Biology Department and Wake Forest University for 32 years. Dave is an internationally recognized scholar in behavioral ecology, and his career has primarily focused on a group of seabirds residing in the Galapagos archipelago who commonly practice siblicide. 

Dr. Anderson has published more than 100 papers in the top journals of the field, has received many federal and foundation grants, and has been interviewed by popular news outlets. Throughout his career, he has taught introductory courses in ecology and evolution, and more advanced courses focusing on the biology of birds, as well as graduate courses. Dave took students to the places where biology happens, either to his field site or, more recently, to Florida to identify different birds along their migratory path during spring break. For the Florida trip, each year’s group aimed to surpass the achievements of their predecessors, and they often did. His passion for birds and biology was infectious and inspired students to develop a deep appreciation for the natural world.

In the classroom, Dr. Anderson adopted a pedagogical approach that prioritized student learning and well-being. Dave had developed a unique strategy that exemplified this style. He would allow students to trade points for hints on exams, which alleviated stress and anxiety and emphasized the importance of mastering course material. Dave was a fierce advocate of the graduate program in biology, and helped develop it into the strong Ph.D. and Master’s training program it is currently. A defining feature of Dr. Anderson’s career was that he balanced being demanding and supportive, challenging students and colleagues alike to reach their full potential while providing guidance and support.