1933
Dr. Andersen is born in Harlan, Iowa to Edward and Anna Christina Andersen.
1954
Dr. Andersen graduates magna cum laude from the University of Northern Iowa, receiving a Bachelor of Arts.
1955
Dr. Andersen receives a Master of Arts from the University of Northern Iowa and becomes an instructor at the University of Colorado.
1961
Dr. Andersen earns a Doctor of Philosophy as a Knapp Fellow from the University of Wisconsin and becomes an instructor at the University of Michigan.
1963
Dr. Andersen is promoted to assistant professor at the University of Michigan.
1964
Dr. Andersen marries Mary Klaaren Andersen, PhD.
1966
Dr. Andersen serves as a visiting professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago.
1967
Dr. Andersen is promoted to associate professor at the University of Michigan.
1968
Dr. Andersen serves as a visiting professor at the University of Southern California.
1970
Dr. Andersen becomes an associate professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
1971
Dr. Andersen becomes the associate head of the department at the University of Illinois.
1973
Dr. Andersen is promoted to professor of speech communication at the University of Illinois.
1981
Dr. Andersen becomes chairman of senate council and associate dean of liberal arts and sciences at the University of Illinois.
1983
Dr. Anderson becomes president of the National Communication Association.
1984
Dr. Andersen becomes chair of the University Senate Conference at the University of Illinois.
1988
Dr. Andersen serves as deputy vice chancellor for academic affairs at the University of Illinois.
1995
Dr. Andersen earns the title earns the title of Professor Emeritus at the University of Illinois.
2000
Dr. Andersen joins the faculty advisory council of the Illinois Board of Higher Education at the University of Illinois.
2006
Dr. Andersen joins the advisory committee and becomes chair of the legislative committee with the State University of Retirement Systems.
2008
Dr. Andersen is inducted into the Central States Communication Association Hall of Fame.