Dexter Patterson

Dexter Patterson serves as Teaching Faculty in the Department of Life Sciences Communication at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, instructing undergraduate and graduate students—including those in the Science Communication Ph.D. program—in video production, radio/podcasting, social media, and documentary photography.

His educational background includes a master’s degree in communications and media studies from Purdue University.

Patterson’s research integrates science communication with visual storytelling, emphasizing environmental conservation through bird photography. He leverages photographic narratives to advance inclusivity and ecological awareness, particularly within underrepresented communities.

As co-founder of the BIPOC Birding Club of Wisconsin, he mentors members to foster equitable access to birding spaces. His book Birds of the Great Lake identifies over 100 regional species while promoting conservation practices for sustainable birding futures.