Robert DeHaan serves as professor of environmental studies at Dordt University, where he teaches courses such as Ecology and Field Biology, Restoration Ecology, Wildlife Ecology, and Introduction to Community Development.
DeHaan’s faith fuels his passion for preservation and stewardship of creation.
“Faith provides the basis for my teaching and professional work,” DeHaan explains. “It’s a desire to care for what God has made.”
While at Dordt, DeHaan has researched farming practices in Northwest Iowa. His findings have been published here.
Before coming to Dordt, DeHaan spent time abroad, gaining real-world experience in the intersection of faith and agriculture. “I lived in Nigeria from 1986 to 1989,” DeHaan says. “I was active in a local church, and I managed a Nigerian-owned farm with about 50 employees.”
DeHaan also serves as director of Dordt University’s Prairie. Aiming to provide practical experience, students in DeHaan’s classes have the opportunity to learn about the unique landscape and needs of the prairie, assisting in its care and management.
Outside of work, DeHaan enjoys photography, spending time in nature, and travelling to visit family.
Education:
PhD, University of Minnesota, 1995
MS, University of Minnesota, 1993
BA, Dordt College, 1985