Supported by a comprehensive summary of student evaluations, Peede’s recommendations paint a vivid picture of his unparalleled commitment to teaching. His performance stood as a testament to his ability to instill core principles while fostering critical thinking and skill development among his students.
Reflecting on the feedback from his students, one student recommender couldn't help but be moved by the depth of their appreciation for Peede's teaching approach. His dedication to ensuring every student grasped the material, coupled with his concise and engaging teaching style, earned him unanimous praise and admiration. "He understands that not everyone can get it on their first try," one student remarked, highlighting David's unwavering commitment to student success.
Peede is lauded by Brown faculty as well. “David demonstrated proactive preparation by thoroughly reviewing my teaching materials. He quickly identified places where he could improve the course, and his astute observations led to significant enhancements in the instructional methods, particularly regarding the computational aspects of the course,” shares Emilia Huerta-Sánchez, Associate Professor of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology.
Peede shares his profound gratitude for being considered for the prestigious award. "Being selected for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Teaching represents more than just a personal achievement. It's an opportunity to enrich my understanding of population genetics and share the joys of understanding the natural world."
When asked about his most enjoyable teaching experience, Peede's passion for his craft shone through. His role as the instructor of record for Computational Methods for Studying Demographic History with Molecular Data offered him the chance to not only impart knowledge but to redesign the course material, ensuring it catered to the needs of budding population geneticists. Through practical coding exercises and research projects, Peede nurtured a generation of students eager to explore the intricate world of population genetics.
Beyond the classroom, Peede's dissertation research delves into the complexities of archaic introgression, shedding light on the genetic underpinnings and evolutionary consequences of historic gene flow between modern and archaic humans—i.e., Neanderthals and Denisovans. His groundbreaking discoveries not only advance the understanding of human evolution but also provide a framework for identifying medically relevant variants—a testament to his multifaceted contributions to academia.
Peede's journey exemplifies the profound impact one instructor can have on shaping minds, inspiring curiosity, and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. And as his story unfolds, it is clear that his legacy will endure far beyond the confines of the classroom, leaving an indelible mark on the academic landscape for generations to come.
Jack-William Barotta, Alba Lara Granero, David Peede and Anna Soifer received Excellence in Teaching Awards at the University Awards Ceremony on May 1, 2024.