He has excelled in teaching a course on “Biological Diversity,” which is required for majors, and a lab course on “Plant Communities of North Carolina.” His research and teaching program thus may be characterized by the aphorism “Think globally, act locally.” In recent years he has participated in major efforts to synthesize phylogenetic, population genetic, and geological history in Northern Hemisphere plants. Paul’s presentations are described as a model of clarity and organization. He is currently serving as Director of Undergraduate Studies and is widely recognized for his deep commitment over time to undergraduate teaching.