Western Illinois University Department of Geography

Posted May 5, 2009

A retirement reception for Dr. Dan Wise will be held in the Lamoine Room of the University Union on May 13 from 4:00-6:00 pm. Dr. Wise joined the Department of Geography 1977. He taught a wide range of courses includeing computer cartography but the bulk of his teaching load was in Meteorology. Dr. Wise was instrumental in the development of the Meteorology program which eventually became the Bachelor of Science in Meteorology in 2003. A prolific scholar, Dr. Wise co-authored the popular Essentials of Physical Geography textbook, one of the most widely used introductory physical geography textbooks.

Dr. Wise served as Department Chairperson for twelve years before assuming the position of Associate Dean for Planning and Academic Affairs in the College of Arts and Sciences in 1999. As Associate Dean, Dr. Wise oversaw facilities for the College, coordinated strategic planning efforts and managed the College's budget.
Dr. Wise received several awards, including the College's Outstanding Teacher (1984) and the University's Administrative Distinguished Service Award (2006). He was also among eight geography professors across the U.S. to receive the Distinguished Teaching Award from the National Council for Geographic Education (1982).