David Lutz has been promoted from assistant professor to associate professor at Colby-Sawyer College. 

Lutz, who teaches environmental science and environmental studies courses, joined the college in 2023 following six years as a research assistant professor at Dartmouth College.  

Hilary Williams, academic vice president and dean of faculty, announced Lutz’s promotion at a campus meeting in May.  

In 2025, Lutz received the Jack Jensen Award for Excellence in Teaching and, as is tradition for the recipient, delivered the keynote at Commencement. 

Lutz uses satellite imagery, computer models, machine learning and sensor networks to understand forest ecosystems and environmental change.

He has explored regions throughout temperate, tropical and boreal forests worldwide and his research has been funded by NASA, the U.S. Forest Service, the National Park Service and the National Science Foundation. 

Lutz holds a Ph.D. and a master’s degree in environmental sciences from the University of Virginia and a bachelor’s degree in biology from Wake Forest University.