Dr. David Cairns, head of Texas A&M University’s Department of Geography, was named a 2025 Fellow by the American Association of Geographers (AGA), This honor highlights his interdisciplinary work as a biogeographer, focusing on how environmental conditions, disturbances and climate change shape ecological patterns and processes. Cairns is among 18 scholars nationwide selected for this prestigious recognition.
The AAG Fellows program is both a recognition and service initiative, applauding geographers who have made significant contributions to advancing the discipline. Fellows also play an active role in mentoring and advising others within the field while supporting the association’s initiatives and strategic goals.
“AAG Fellows show exemplary accomplishments in a wide range of geography specialties,” said Dr. Gary Langham, executive director of the AAG. “They are the scholars, mentors and advocates who consistently advance the geography discipline.”
A leading figure in Arctic research, Cairns has made significant contributions to the study of ecological and geomorphic patterns in extreme environments. His service as president of the Board of Directors of the Arctic Research Consortium of the United States, along with his involvement in the International Polar Year research program, underscores his commitment to fostering international and interdisciplinary collaborations.
Cairns has also played an active role within the AAG, serving as chair and board member of the Biogeography Specialty Group and as a reviewer for AAG journals. His mentorship and dedication to promoting equity and diversity in geography have had a lasting impact, both at A&M and beyond.
“I’m honored to represent Texas A&M Geography in this distinguished collection of outstanding scholars,” Cairns said. “I’d like to recognize all of my colleagues here at A&M and at other institutions that have helped to advance geographic knowledge and scholarship in ways that wouldn’t have been possible on my own.”
The AAG has promoted the study of geography for more than 100 years, connecting members from nearly 100 countries through annual meetings, academic journals, and other programs.