Looking for better ways to encourage students to tackle mathematics problem solving led Ed Anderson into a brainstorming session with a group of other teachers in 1963. That historic conversation led to the creation of the Junior Mathematics Contest and ultimately the Canadian Mathematics Competition, both of which Ed has helped guide for nearly 40 years.
He is also a founder of the Waterloo Mathematics Foundation - an organization he has served with for many years. In addition to the Descartes Medal, he is the recipient of a Pouliot Award from the Canadian Mathematics Society for contributions to school mathematics in Canada. He is the co-author of an OAC algebra and geometry textbook, and
co-author or editor of numerous problems books related to the Canadian Mathematics Competition.
Ed grew up in Damascus, Ontario, attending S.S. No. 6 West Luther Township and Arthur H.S.  Before getting his degree at McMaster University, he was an electrician.  His first teaching job was at Drayton D.H.S.  From there he went to F.E. Madill S.S. in Wingham where he was department head, and later to the Faculty of Mathematics at the University of Waterloo. He was very involved with Waterloo’s Co-operative Mathematics Teaching Program, often visiting and coaching new teachers.  In addition, he frequently spoke to groups of students and teachers about contests and problem solving.
Ed defines life-long learning. He served for nine years with the 21st Field Artillery Regiment. He has held a private pilots’ licence, been an enthusiastic sailor, and enjoys coin collecting and home renovation. He recently took on a new challenge – becoming a tour guide at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.