Why Flourishing? A Tribute to Dr. Edward "Chip" Anderson

This article was originally published in the LinkedIn Newsletter, Designed to Flourish, by Matt Visser

During my graduate studies at Azusa Pacific University, I had the joy to learn from Dr. Edward "Chip" Anderson, a pioneer in positive psychology. Our breakfast meetings were more than academic discussions; they offered insight into his life and dedication to uplifting others.

Chip's morning routine was particularly inspiring: he began each day with prayer, reflecting on three individuals to whom he would offer encouragement. This practice demonstrated his deep belief in the power of faith, personal connections, and seeing people individually.

I felt unprepared when Chip invited me to be a teaching assistant for a course. His confidence in me, among so many others, helped launch my career in student development, creating learning environments, and now in leadership and organizational development.

As a UCLA and Azusa Pacific University professor, Chip co-authored the influential book "Strengthsquest" with Donald O. Clifton. This work has been instrumental in helping students discover and develop their strengths in academics, careers, and beyond.

Studying what is right with People

One of Chip's significant contributions was his involvement in a groundbreaking study at UCLA, where he and his colleagues surveyed 30,000 high-achieving students. This extensive research shifted the focus from traditional psychological studies that often centered on deficits to exploring and understanding what was right with people.

Chip's dedication to "studying what was right with people" has profoundly influenced my work in promoting human flourishing among leaders, teams, and organizations.

By identifying and analyzing the strengths and talents of these students, Chip laid the foundation for a strengths-based approach to education and personal development.

Flourishing Leaders build upon their Strengths

His emphasis on recognizing and nurturing individual strengths aligns seamlessly with the principles of positive psychology and has been a guiding framework in my efforts to foster environments where individuals and teams can flourish.

Chip passed away in 2005 after a long battle with cancer. His legacy lives on through the Gallup Strengths movement and the research around student thriving under the leadership of Dr. Laurie Schreiner at Azusa Pacific University.

Chip’s legacy is a beacon for all who strive to understand and enhance human potential. His pioneering work continues to inspire and guide those committed to the flourishing of individuals and communities.

Like Chip, I believe every person is uniquely designed to flourish. My dedication to human flourishing is grounded in this enduring belief and hope for leaders, teams, and organizations. The world needs hopeful, healthy, renewed, and flourishing leaders.

With gratitude,

Matt

ps. Writing this has reminded me of so many wonderful memories from the people Azusa Pacific University including Stacie Champine, Jenny Lei Elsey, Ed.D, Alexander Jun, Karen Rouggly, Jamie Noling-Auth, Timothy Hooten, Terry Franson, PhD, Coba Canales, Ed.D., Kristin Ritzau, PhD, Kristin Gurrola, Charlie Moore, Michelle Martinez, Jillian Gilbert, DSL, Director Leadership By Design, IWU, Wendi Dykes McGehee, Ph.D. , Chuck Strawn and so so many more! You all are amazing and gifted! Thank you!

Matt Visser serves as a Senior Design Partner with Design Group International. Matt’s greatest joy is empowering you as an adaptive leader to tackle your most difficult problems and help you build flourishing leadership, teams, and organizational ecosystems. Matt has invested over 20 years in growing nonprofit organizations focused on leadership development, community engagement, fundraising, and innovation.

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