2019 Edition of Math Matters is Live!
In this edition of Math Matters, we are excited to share stories of impact. Please enjoy reading about the impact the department has made in student success, outreach, research, teaching and support.
Category: Math Matters
Postbaccalaureate Program Provides Bridge to Success for Many Students
Makayla Cowles spent the last two semesters thriving in the postbac certificate program in the Department of Mathematics, now she’s now enrolled in a Ph.D. program at the University of Colorado, Denver.
Student Veterans Get Back into Mathematical Shape with Boot Camp
For many first-year students, there is apprehension about stepping into college academics. Am I ready? Do I have what it takes to succeed in college?
A Logical Legacy
Scott Hanna (’77 metallurgy) had a trio of eclectic interests. Exotic curries, vinyl records and, mostly, math. Through a generous, seven-figure planned gift, his love of mathematics lives on.
A Career Takes Flight in a New Direction
Scott Kongable’s path to an Air Force career seemed perfectly straight, but life took an unpredictable turn.
Conquering Invasive Species with Mathematics
BY ANGIE HAGERTY Mathematics is about solving complex problems and finding answers. Rana Parshad, assistant professor of mathematics, is harnessing the power of mathematics to solve the complex problem of invasive species and halt the damage that these unwanted invaders inflict on ecosystems. “Once an invasive species spreads, establishes and flourishes within local populations, it … Continue reading Conquering Invasive Species with Mathematics
Coordinated Calculus Inspires Change
BY ANGIE HAGERTY Large lecture math courses are being taught with an improved format to foster student success Positive student feedback and satisfaction with coordinated calculus—a fresh and innovative approach to teaching undergraduate calculus—has sparked the mathematics department to expand its lineup of coordinated course offerings. Revamped and redesigned with student success in mind, the … Continue reading Coordinated Calculus Inspires Change
Solve This
Thanks to Elgin Johnston for creating these delights: Problem 1 Maria recently attended a going a way party for a friend. When asked the next day how many people were at the party she said that she did not remember. However, she did remember that she was in charge of cutting the rectangular cake. She … Continue reading Solve This
Math Matters – Letter from the Chair
Dear alumni and friends, Change is constant, and in the Department of Mathematics that’s been a good thing. Over the last year, faculty, staff and students have worked diligently toward some challenging goals, and the momentum has been contagious. The results have been incredible, enabling us to start this academic year with a stronger, more … Continue reading Math Matters – Letter from the Chair
Math Matters News Roundup
OUTREACH The Department of Mathematics extended its outreach during the last year, with a special focus on underrepresented students. In honor of Sofia Kovalevskeya, a trailblazing Russian mathematician, faculty, staff and students hosted nearly 50 young women grades 5-12 and more than 25 parents and teachers from central Iowa for a program featuring workshops, interactive … Continue reading Math Matters News Roundup