DANIEL JOHNSON, PH.D., is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Geography at Portland State University. Dr. Johnson's academic journey began in 1977 when he enrolled in the graduate program in Geography at Arizona State University. Initially uncertain about his specialization, he soon found his passion in the Laboratory of Climatology, where he focused his dissertation research on the interactions between climate change and water resources—a field that has captivated him throughout his distinguished career.
Dr. Johnson’s career at Portland State University spans two distinct phases. In the first phase, lasting 31 years, he served as a tenured faculty member in the Department of Geography, with responsibilities encompassing teaching, research, service, and administration. During this time, he developed and taught a wide array of courses in Geography and other programs such as University Studies, the Center for Science Education, and the Study Abroad Program. In alignment with the university's commitment to expanding remote course offerings, he transitioned several of his courses into hybrid and online formats. Dr. Johnson retired in March 2008, celebrating this milestone with his wife by walking 500 miles across France and northern Spain on ancient pilgrimage trails.
Following this remarkable adventure, Dr. Johnson returned to PSU for the second phase of his career—as an Adjunct Professor. He now teaches fully online geography courses with large enrollments that fulfill cluster requirements in University Studies. The most popular of these courses is Climatology, in which he engages with approximately 75 students from various disciplines each term. The course focuses on climate change and the associated public debate. Students enroll to enhance their climate literacy, understanding the basic workings of the climate system and its changes. Dr. Johnson encourages his students to stay informed on climate issues through reliable sources, explore adaptation and mitigation options, and consider proactive engagement in addressing future environmental challenges.
Dr. Johnson's teaching and mentoring have been a source of continual inspiration. He expresses deep appreciation for his students, noting their maturity, intelligence, motivation, and commitment to making the world a better place. He finds their work in his classes consistently impressive and rewarding, affirming his dedication to educating the next generation of climate-literate citizens.