Andrew “Pete” Vayda
Dr. Andrew P. "Pete" Vayda (1931 – 2022) was a Hungarian-born American scholar in human ecology and ecological anthropology. A self-described “inquirer,” Vayda was a distinguished professor; interdisciplinary researcher; and passionate foodie, traveler and lover of life. He is remembered for his wit; irreverence; zest for intellectual engagement; fascination with “why questions;” unfiltered opinions; role as beloved father and grandfather; raunchy humor; and fierceness on the squash court.
We spread most of APV’s ashes in the Hudson River at 125th Street, location of the old ferry terminal where as a teen he sold soda (from a tank on his back or chest) and close to the two apartments where he lived most of his adult life.APV’s research, field notes, correspondence, research and photographs are in the National Smithsonian Anthropological Archives, along with those of my mother Cherry Lowman. Much of my parents’ New Guinea research in the 1960s overlapped, so it is good they are in the same place for cross-referencing purposes. Shoutout to Gina Rappaport for her guidance, hard work, organization and expertise with their archives!!A display case in APV’s honor, with some of his favorite artifacts, stands in the Cook College faculty room at Rutgers University. On the one year anniversary of APV’s death, we held a Memorial Zoom that was a moving testament to his impact, with over 50 guests joining from Asia, Europe, Canada and Latin America as well as the US. Link to the full memorial and smaller segments including short video presentations are HERE. My article on grieving my dad: The Oruro Carnaval was the Intervention I Needed