national association of mathematicians

Please see the the form below to volunteer to serve as a grant reviewer for the MAA. This type of service is a great way to gain insight into what the community is up to and provide your expertise to the funding process. Please consider!

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CK9NFZV

The College Board is seeking qualified educators to serve as AP Readers. Readers receive a stipend as well as room, board, and travel reimbursement while participating in the AP Reading.

For more information, please review the following resources:

• AP Precalculus and Student Pathways
• AP Precalculus Course and Exam Description

Apply: https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/professional-learning/become-an-ap-reader/reading-schedule?SFMC_cid=EM1643432-

Contact Information:
Julie Harrison
julieharrison10@yahoo.com

The application deadline is January 1, 2027!

The National Association of Mathematicians (NAM) proudly celebrates Dr. Emery N. Brown, an innovative neuroscientist, statistician, and anesthesiologist, for receiving the prestigious National Medal of Science—the highest honor bestowed upon scientists and engineers in the United States. Dr. Brown, a trailblazer in computational neuroscience, was recognized at a White House ceremony on January 3, 2025, where he was presented the medal by Arati Prabhakar, Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

A Multidisciplinary Pioneer

Dr. Brown’s work exemplifies the intersection of mathematics, neuroscience, and medicine, making groundbreaking contributions to the understanding of brain function and anesthesia. As a professor at MIT and Harvard Medical School, and an anesthesiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, he has led innovative research in signal processing and statistical methods that have advanced multiple fields of science.

His research has focused on how neurons encode signals, how anesthesia affects brain function, and how mathematical models can enhance patient care. His pioneering work has not only revolutionized anesthesiology but has also provided fundamental insights into human consciousness, learning, and memory. These contributions continue to impact mathematical biology, computational neuroscience, and biomedical engineering.

A Legacy of Innovation and Impact

Brown’s official citation at the White House ceremony highlighted his transformational work in neuroscience and anesthesiology, stating:

“Emery Brown's neuroscientific approach to understanding anesthesia’s exact impact on the brain has been transformational for relieving patient suffering and has provided a new foundation for how we think about the very thing that makes us human, our consciousness.”

His research into EEG monitoring during surgery has provided precise methods for anesthetic dosing, leading to improved patient safety and reducing post-operative side effects. In 2023, his lab demonstrated a closed-loop EEG system that adjusts anesthesia levels in real time, paving the way for future clinical applications. His work is also being applied to fields such as sleep medicine, psychiatry, and coma recovery, showing the far-reaching implications of his discoveries.

A Role Model for Black Mathematicians and Scientists

As a Black mathematician and scientist, Dr. Brown’s achievements are particularly inspiring to the NAM community. His career exemplifies the power of mathematical and statistical reasoning in solving real-world problems, a core principle that NAM seeks to promote among students and early-career researchers.

His success also underscores the critical role of mentorship and representation in STEM fields. Brown is a member of the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine and has received numerous accolades, including the Gruber Prize in Neuroscience, the Swartz Prize in Theoretical and Computational Neuroscience, and the Pierre Galletti Prize of the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering.

The Future of Mathematical Neuroscience

Dr. Brown’s latest initiative, the Brain Arousal State Control Innovation Center, is poised to unify anesthesiology research with broader neuroscience applications, including the treatment of depression and the development of improved sleep aids. His ability to bridge mathematical modeling with medical applications continues to set new standards for interdisciplinary research.

Looking Forward

The National Association of Mathematicians extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Emery N. Brown for this well-deserved honor. His work stands as a testament to the transformative power of mathematics in neuroscience, medicine, and beyond. As NAM continues its mission to uplift and support Black mathematicians, Brown’s success serves as an inspiration for the next generation of scholars and innovators.

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Articled written by Zerotti Woods, Ph.D. and Michole Washington, Ph.D.

Photo from Phillips Exeter Academy

We are thrilled to recognize the outstanding achievements of Dr. Olivia (Prosper) Feldman, a valued member of the National Association of Mathematicians, as she is named the 2025 Etta Z. Falconer Lecturer by the Association for Women in Mathematics (AWM) and the Mathematical Association of America (MAA).

Honoring Distinguished Contributions to Mathematical Epidemiology

Dr. Feldman is widely known for her expertise in mathematical modeling with a strong emphasis on epidemiology. Her research spans topics such as parasite-borne infections, population dynamics, and the societal and economic impacts of emerging diseases. Her work is particularly notable for its focus on real-world applications—developing intervention strategies to control outbreaks and improve experimental data collection.

From 2020 to 2024, Feldman published 14 peer-reviewed articles and authored three preprints. Many of these works were collaborative efforts, including projects supported by the American Institute of Mathematics Structured Quartet Research Ensemble (AIM SQuaRE). Her ability to lead and connect researchers across disciplines is a hallmark of her approach.

A Leader in Mentoring and Broadening Participation

In addition to her research excellence, Feldman has shown a deep commitment to mentoring and expanding access in mathematics. At the University of Tennessee, she launched the Junior Modelers Program (JuMP)—a program that introduces undergraduates, as early as their first semester, to data-driven modeling and coding.

Her mentorship has guided four Ph.D. students, one Master’s student, and numerous undergraduates. In 2021, she received the Ann Keith Rea Faculty Teaching Award, a testament to her dedication to student growth and inclusive pedagogy.

Excellence in Teaching and Public Scholarship

Feldman’s talent for communicating complex concepts clearly and compassionately has not gone unnoticed. She has spoken on national webinar panels about COVID-19’s impact on the Black community and was interviewed by The New York Times for her epidemiological expertise. Her ability to reach diverse audiences speaks to her strength as both an educator and public scholar.

A Career of Recognition and Impact

Dr. Feldman is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She holds a B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Florida and completed a postdoc at Dartmouth College. Prior to her current role, she was an assistant professor at the University of Kentucky.

Her accolades include:

• NSF CAREER Award
• Collaborative Research Grants (NSF)
• Intercollegiate Biomathematics Alliance Excellence in Research Award
• University of Tennessee's 2024 Professional Promise in Research and Creative Achievement Award

In 2021, she also served as an organizer for an American Mathematical Society Mathematical Research Community, supporting early-career mathematicians in building collaborative research projects.

Dr. Feldman’s Words

“It is an honor to be recognized by AWM and MAA as the 2025 Falconer Lecturer. AWM has played an important role in my career, providing support and opportunities to expand my collaborations and to provide opportunities for my graduate students.”

– Dr. Olivia (Prosper) Feldman

About the Etta Z. Falconer Lectures

The Falconer Lectures honor the legacy of Dr. Etta Zuber Falconer (1933–2002), a trailblazer in mathematics education and an advocate for minority and women representation in STEM. These lectures spotlight women who have made significant contributions to the mathematical sciences and education.

We celebrate Dr. Feldman not only for the distinguished honor of being named the 2025 Falconer Lecturer, but also for her exemplary embodiment of the values Dr. Falconer championed—excellence, equity, and community.

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Article reprinted with permission by the Association for Women in Mathematics and edited for NAM by Zerotti Woods, Ph.D. and Michole Washington, Ph.D.

Photo by Ben Walker, University of Tennessee

The United Negro College Fund Teaching + Learning Center is excited to invite Math teachers and professors to participate in a Gates Foundation-funded initiative aimed at improving student outcomes in college introductory-level math courses, with a particular focus on Calculus I.

The Gates Foundation is developing free, open-source digital courseware with the goal of mitigating high D/F/W/I rates among historically underrepresented students. This R&D initiative ensures that the perspectives of expert faculty help inform this tech-enabled product.

UNCF is conducting a series of virtual focus groups and interviews to assess what is working well on university campuses, unearth best pedagogical practices, and gauge interest in educational technology tools that leverage adaptive courseware and AI to promote student success.

Data collection activities will be conducted from Spring 2025, and faculty will receive a gift card for their participation

Interested faculty should complete the Math Faculty Interest Form at https://bit.ly/MathFacultyInterestFormSpring25 as soon as possible. All questions can be directed to tlcenter@uncf.org.

We are proud to recognize Dr. Johnny L. Houston, a founding member and lifelong leader within the National Association of Mathematicians (NAM), for his extraordinary legacy and his recent recognition at the 2025 Joint Mathematics Meetings (JMM) in Seattle, WA.

A Legacy of Leadership and Service

Dr. Johnny L. Houston is Professor Emeritus at Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) and has shaped the mathematics community for over five decades. He co-founded NAM in 1969 and served as its Executive Secretary from 1975 to 2000. His leadership has continued with his presence on NAM’s Board of Directors for an incredible 50 years.

Celebrated Contributions and National Recognition

Dr. Houston’s impact on mathematics and STEM education has been nationally acknowledged. Among his many honors:

• Selected as a Science-Mathematics History Maker in 2013, with his contributions archived in the U.S. Library of Congress
• Honored as a Mathematically Gifted and Black (MGB) Honoree in 2018
• Two annual lectures have been established in his name:
  • The Houston STEM Lecture at ECSU (established in 2016)
  • The Houston Mathematics Lecture at Purdue University (established in 2023)
• In 2024, a lecture-classroom at ECSU (Room 225, Dixon-Patterson Hall) was named in his honor

Presence at the 2025 Joint Mathematics Meetings (JMM)

The Joint Mathematics Meetings (JMM), the world’s largest annual math gathering, is hosted by the American Mathematical Society (AMS) along with 16 partner organizations—including NAM. Dr. Houston, a Life Member of AMS and also of NAM, MAA, and SIAM, was a significant figure at JMM 2025 in Seattle.

At this year's JMM, NAM held its annual National Meeting featuring the Claytor-Woodard Lecture, Cox-Talbot Address, and Haynes-Granville-Browne Presentations. The event also showcased a special project that Dr. Houston helped bring to life.

Championing Black Stories in Mathematics: The JBM Project

At both JMM 2024 and 2025, NAM and SLMATH (formerly MSRI) presented premiere screenings of The JBM Project: Journeys of Black Mathematicians, produced by ZALA Films:

• Part 1: Forging Resilience premiered at JMM 2024 (San Francisco)
• Part 2: Creating Pathways premiered at JMM 2025 (Seattle)

Dr. Houston served as the primary consultant for the JBM Project and chaired the Advisory Group responsible for selecting participants. He appeared on both panels following the screenings and was instrumental in shaping the vision, focus, and authenticity of the films. His deep connections in the mathematical community and his decades of leadership through NAM were invaluable in identifying and connecting with contributors for the project.

Honored for Impact

At the conclusion of the JBM Panel on January 11, 2025, Dr. Houston was honored with a special recognition plaque from ZALA Films (Producer George Csicsery) and Tatiana Toro, Director of SLMATH. The tribute acknowledged his unmatched knowledge of the Black mathematical community, his commitment to documenting its legacy, and his unique ability to bring people together through NAM.

Dr. Houston’s lifelong service, mentorship, and storytelling have helped illuminate the journeys of countless Black mathematicians. We celebrate him—not only for what he has done but for who he continues to be in our community.

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Article edited by Zerotti Woods, Ph.D. and Michole Washington, Ph.D. 

Dr. Johnny L. Houston (second from left) pictured above during the JBM Project Panel at JMM 2025

For the past several months, PBS stations across the United States have been airing "Journeys of Black Mathematicians," a powerful two-part documentary that delves into the cultural evolution of Black scholars, scientists, and educators in the field of mathematics. The series, which has garnered widespread acclaim, brings to light the remarkable contributions of Black mathematicians while exploring the impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in shaping the next generation of mathematical minds.

A Legacy of Excellence and Resilience

"Journeys of Black Mathematicians" is not just a historical account—it is a living testament to the perseverance, brilliance, and contributions of Black scholars in mathematics. The films follow the stories of pioneering mathematicians who, despite systemic barriers, carved paths of excellence that continue to inspire today’s mid-career professionals in the field. These individuals, in turn, serve as mentors and role models for college students and K-12 learners across the country, reinforcing the idea that they, too, belong in the world of mathematics and STEM.

A Vision Rooted in NAM’s Mission

The project behind this landmark documentary was initiated by Dr. Johnny Houston, one of the founding members of the National Association of Mathematicians (NAM). His vision for the series was to highlight the rich legacy of Black mathematicians and their enduring impact on the field, particularly through the role of HBCUs. Many NAM members are prominently featured in the series, sharing their experiences, insights, and perspectives on the progress and future of Black mathematicians in academia and beyond.

The Role of HBCUs in Shaping Mathematicians

One of the central themes of "Journeys of Black Mathematicians" is the profound influence of HBCUs in cultivating Black talent in mathematics. The documentary underscores the indispensable role that these institutions have played in developing and nurturing mathematical excellence, often in the face of limited resources and institutional challenges. Throughout the series, students at these institutions emphasize the dedication of outstanding teachers who have been instrumental in advancing math and science programs, ensuring that future generations have access to the knowledge and mentorship needed to succeed.

A Call to Action: Inspiring Future Generations

Beyond celebrating past and present achievements, the series also looks forward, posing critical questions about how to increase representation and engagement in mathematics. How can the pipeline for Black mathematicians be strengthened? What strategies can be implemented to create more opportunities for young Black students in STEM? The films explore these pressing issues, offering insights into mentorship, community-building, and innovative approaches to education that seek to bring more students into the mathematical fold.

A Must-Watch for Educators, Students, and Advocates

"Journeys of Black Mathematicians" is a landmark documentary that is not only a celebration of history but also a roadmap for the future. By sharing the personal and professional journeys of Black mathematicians, the series provides a compelling narrative that challenges stereotypes, fosters inspiration, and highlights the critical importance of diversity in mathematics.

With continued broadcasts on PBS and growing recognition, the impact of this series will undoubtedly resonate for years to come, encouraging educators, policymakers, and students to take an active role in advancing diversity and inclusion in mathematics.

For those who have yet to experience the power of this documentary, check local PBS listings or visit Journeys of Black Mathematicians | PBS for upcoming airings and streaming options.

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Article edited by Zerotti Woods, Ph.D. and Michole Washington, Ph.D.

The National Association of Mathematicians (NAM) had an impactful presence at the 2025 Joint Mathematics Meeting (JMM), showcasing a robust lineup of sessions, discussions, and celebrations that highlighted the contributions of Black mathematicians and fostered a sense of community within the profession. Held at The Seattle Convention Center and The Sheraton Grand, the JMM is the largest annual gathering of mathematicians in the world, and NAM’s events provided a vital platform for networking, mentorship, and scholarly exchange.

Engaging Sessions and Discussions

NAM's programming at JMM 2025 kicked off with “Quantitative Justice”, an insightful session held on January 8 where speakers explored the role of mathematics in social justice and policy-making. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions on data-driven approaches to equity and justice.

On January 9, the Haynes-Granville-Browne Presentations offered a showcase of cutting-edge research by recent doctoral recipients. These presentations provided an opportunity for emerging scholars to share their work with the broader mathematical community, reinforcing NAM’s commitment to supporting early-career mathematicians.

• Dr. Taylor H. Ferebee presented how deep learning can be used to better understand and predict how genes work in plants—especially maize—by combining data from different species and showing why clean, well-organized data is essential for getting accurate results.
• Dr. Sipkaduwa Arachchige Sashika Sureni Wickramasooriya showed how they used statistical and deep learning models to forecast monthly mosquito abundance and malaria cases in São Tomé, Africa, by analyzing climate data, vector control measures, and historical trends—offering insights to better plan malaria prevention efforts in 2025.
• Dr. Reginald Cyril Wallis Anderson presented new ways to resolve the diagonal in smooth projective toric varieties and stacks, extending previous work to broader cases and highlighting implications for exceptional collections on toric Fano varieties in low dimensions.
• Dr. Romario Gildas Foko Tiomela showed how they used mathematical modeling and optimal control theory to evaluate the economic impact of COVID-19 interventions, aiming to guide more effective public health decision-making.
• Dr. Michole E. Washington shared how culturally relevant math education and intentional use of artificial intelligence can disrupt algorithmic bias and political erasure to empower Black girls—honoring the legacy of Black women mathematicians while reimagining a future where Black girls thrive in mathematics from K–12 to PhD.

That afternoon, the Legacy of Elbert Frank Cox session honored the first Black Ph.D. in mathematics, reflecting on his enduring impact and the continued efforts to build a more inclusive discipline.

Celebrating Excellence: The Cox-Talbot Address and Banquet

One of the most anticipated events of NAM’s JMM programming was the Banquet and Cox-Talbot Address. This prestigious lecture, delivered by Dr. Omayra Ortega, celebrated the achievements of Black mathematicians and provided inspiration for the next generation of scholars.

Honoring Great Minds: The Claytor-Woodard Lecture

On the morning of January 11, attendees gathered for the Claytor-Woodard Lecture, a distinguished talk given by Dr. Tai-Danae Bradley. This annual lecture, named after mathematical pioneers William W. S. Claytor and Dudley Weldon Woodard, highlights groundbreaking research and contributions by Black mathematicians.

Business and Community Building

Following the lecture, NAM members convened for the NAM Business Meeting to discuss organizational updates, upcoming initiatives, and ways to further NAM’s mission of fostering excellence and inclusion in the mathematical sciences.

Inspiring Stories: Journeys of Black Mathematicians

The conference concluded with a special screening of George Csicsery’s film, “Journeys of Black Mathematicians: Creating Pathways,” followed by a panel discussion. This event provided a powerful reflection on the experiences of Black mathematicians, celebrating both historical figures and contemporary trailblazers who are shaping the future of the field.

Looking Ahead

NAM’s presence at JMM 2025 was a testament to the strength, resilience, and brilliance of Black mathematicians. As we look ahead to another year of mentorship, research, and advocacy, NAM remains dedicated to advancing diversity in mathematics and ensuring that the contributions of Black scholars continue to be recognized and celebrated.

Stay tuned for future NAM events and initiatives, and we look forward to gathering again next year!

Join Us for the 2025 Faculty Conference on Research and Teaching Excellence (FCRTE) at Medgar Evers College

Are you a faculty member at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) or support education at HBCUs? Are you looking to connect with peers, share research, and explore strategies for teaching excellence? Mark your calendar for April 11-12, 2025, and join us at Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, New York, for the Faculty Conference on Research and Teaching Excellence (FCRTE)!

About the FCRTE

The Faculty Conference on Research and Teaching Excellence is a premier two-day event designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and recognition within the academic community. Organized by the National Association of Mathematicians (NAM), this conference rotates across the country based on NAM’s regional structure, ensuring broad participation and engagement.

This year’s host institution, Medgar Evers College, provides a dynamic backdrop for faculty members to exchange ideas and celebrate achievements in research and pedagogy.

Key Features of the Conference

The FCRTE 2025 will offer four major components that cater to the interests and needs of faculty in mathematics, computer science, and related fields:

Albert Turner Bharucha-Reid Lecture

An esteemed tradition, this hour-long lecture will be delivered prior to the Friday evening banquet. It serves as a platform for an influential scholar to share insights and advancements in mathematical sciences and teaching methodologies.

Recognition Banquet

Taking place on Friday evening, this celebratory dinner will honor distinguished faculty, recognize outstanding contributions, and provide a space for attendees to network and build lasting professional connections.

Contributed Talks

Eight selected faculty members will have the opportunity to present their research or teaching innovations. Each 20-minute talk, followed by a 5-10 minute Q&A session, will allow for knowledge sharing and intellectual exchange.

Panel Discussion

The conference will conclude on Saturday with a regional panel discussion addressing pressing academic and institutional issues relevant to faculty in the region. This interactive session will encourage dialogue, collaboration, and actionable takeaways for all participants.

Why Attend?

• Engage with fellow HBCU faculty and expand your professional network.

• Showcase your research through contributed talks.

• Gain insights from distinguished scholars and experts.

• Celebrate excellence in teaching and research.

• Participate in meaningful discussions on challenges and opportunities in higher education.

Don’t miss this enriching experience to grow professionally, share your expertise, and contribute to the advancement of research and teaching within the HBCU community.

Stay tuned for registration details and speaker announcements. We look forward to welcoming you to Brooklyn, NY, on April 11-12, 2025!

For more information, visit www.nam-math.org.

This memorial article, by Tasha R. Inniss, Ph.D. (Originally published by the American Mathematical Society) focuses on two African American women mathematicians/statisticians who not only had an enormous impact on her life, but who also played pivotal roles in diversifying the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The first, Dr. Shirley Mathis McBay (May 4, 1935–November 27, 2021), was one of her mentors, and the second, Dr. Dionne Lynnette Price (August 29, 1971–February 22, 2024), was her best friend.

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Shirley Mathis McBay, PhD was the dean for student affairs at MIT in the 1980s where she started the Quality Education for Minorities (QEM) Project to determine ways to increase minority participation in higher education. She authored “Education that Works: An Action Plan for the Education of Minorities”. She left MIT in 1990 to found the QEM Network (https://qem.org/) and served as its president until 2016. In an interview with Dr. Zerotti Woods for the article he wrote on Dr. McBay for the AMS Notices, she shared that her goal for establishing the QEM Network was “to implement the recommendations of the [1990] study”. Since its founding, the QEM Network has achieved Dr. McBay’s goal and has helped to shape the STEM landscape, particularly as it relates to federal funding to support historically underrepresented faculty in STEM and minority-serving institutions (MSIs).

Dionne Lynnette Price, PhD, at the time of her passing, was the deputy director of the Office of Biostatistics in the Office of Translational Sciences, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). “Dionne’s decision to work at the FDA as a statistician was driven by her desire to combine her love of teaching, her aspiration to apply her skills to real-world problems, and her unwavering determination to create meaningful impact in the lives of others.”⁠Footnote1 She spent her entire career at the FDA where she rose through the ranks and made significant contributions both at the FDA and in the global statistics community. Dr. Price was an active member of the American Statistical Association (ASA), consistent attendee at the annual diversity workshop during the Joint Statistical Meetings (JSM), and faithful participant during the Fostering Diversity in Biostatistics meetings of the Eastern North American Region (ENAR) International Biometric Society. In an interview at the 2019 JSM Diversity & Leadership Conference, Dr. Price spoke about the value of the diversity workshop, saying “We get to impact everyone and build our pipeline so that we will have a bright future.”

I wanted to write this joint memorial not just because they were both important people in my life, but also because I met both of these phenomenal women at the same time during the David and Lucile Packard Foundation HBCU Graduate Scholars Program conference. In 1993, “Dee,” as those who were close to her affectionately called her, and I were each awarded a Packard graduate scholarship. We became Packard Graduate Scholars after we both completed our undergraduate degrees in mathematics from Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs); Dee from Norfolk State University and I from Xavier University of Louisiana. Dr. McBay was on the Advisory Committee for the program along with HBCU presidents such as the president of my alma mater, Dr. Norman C. Francis, as well as two president emeriti of Morehouse College, Dr. Hugh Gloster and Dr. Walter E. Massey. Every summer, the Packard Foundation would fly all Packard HBCU Graduate Scholars to Monterey, California, for the annual conference. The Foundation selected and supported graduate scholars from 1992 to 2002.

Dr. McBay along with other members of the Advisory Board had a keen interest in our experiences as Black students at Research I institutions. What was ascertained was that those of us who majored in mathematics at HBCUs and then pursued advanced degrees at highly ranked research-focused institutions experienced a more challenging road to our PhDs because we were perceived to be less prepared. The perception of our talent and ability to do mathematical research as Black women was at times disheartening, but we prevailed due to the mentorship and fierce advocacy we received from individuals such as Dr. McBay and because of the powerful network we had as Packard Graduate Scholars. Our experiences bring to mind the quote of Dr. Evelyn Boyd Granville, who was “an internationally recognized mathematician, computer scientist, scientist/engineer, scholar, educator, mentor, and pioneer/barrier breaker …”.

“I always smile when I hear that women cannot excel in mathematics.” — Dr. Evelyn Boyd Granville, 2nd African American woman to earn a PhD in Mathematics

Being the First

In addition to being among the small number of African American women who earned doctoral degrees in the mathematical sciences, Dr. McBay and Dr. Price shared other parallels in their narratives and trajectories. They both graduated summa cum laude from their undergraduate HBCU institutions and were the first African Americans to earn a PhD in their field from their graduate institutions.

Dr. McBay graduated from Paine College with a BA degree in Chemistry in 1954 at the age of 19. In 1966, she became the first African American to earn a PhD from the University of Georgia (UGA) in any field and the first woman to earn a doctorate in mathematics.

Dr. Price graduated from Norfolk State University as valedictorian with a BS degree in mathematics in 1993 and was the first African American to earn a doctoral degree in Biostatistics from Emory University in 2001.

They were both honorees on Mathematically Gifted & Black, a website highlighting the careers of Black mathematicians. The website was begun by four Black women mathematicians (Dr. Erica Graham, Dr. Raegen Higgins, Dr. Candice Price, and Dr. Shelby Wilson) who are phenomenal in their own right. I am sure they would also make Dr. Granville smile as they exemplify women excelling in mathematics.

In January 2023, Dr. Price became the 118th, and first African American, president of the ASA. She took this role very seriously and served in excellence as she did with everything in her career and professional life. Every month, she would write a column, President’s Corner, for the AMSTAT News. In the February 2023 issue, she stated “There are still settings in which bias has the potential to negatively affect the careers and professional development of members. Thus, embracing JEDI [justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion] is embracing the intellect of all”.

Her parents, niece, and I, along with the ASA executive director, Ron Wasserstein, sat in the front row in amazement at the brilliant speech she delivered. In it she was not only able to pay homage to statistical scholars who were giants in the field, but also to honor those individuals who shaped her life and career trajectory in a STEM field. It was motivating as well as informative. She made great use of many types of media, including beginning with the Mission Impossible music since the title of her address was “Our Mission in Action: Past, Present, and Future.” In her ASA presidential address, Dr. Price stated the following: “my vision of our future is one that has 1) a rich pipeline of students in statistics and data science, 2) increased awareness and visibility of our community and our many efforts, and 3) ensuring our future leaders are prepared to lead with statistics”.

It was such a compelling address that both her niece and I wanted to jump up to give her a standing ovation.

HBCU Influence and Impact

Dr. McBay and Dr. Price were proud graduates of HBCUs. Dr. McBay also worked at an HBCU, Spelman College, between 1967 and 1975. Spelman is only one of two HBCUs for Black women and has been the number one HBCU as reported by US News & World Report 4 for 18 years in a row. According to Infobrief NCSES, produced by the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES),⁠Footnote2 Spelman College is listed as second to Howard University as top US baccalaureate-origin institution of Black or African American doctorate recipients, which includes males, between 2010 and 2020. This is remarkable since Howard, classified as an R2 doctoral university, has more than four times the student enrollment of Spelman, which is classified as a Baccaulareate college with an arts and sciences focus. When the data was disaggregated for males and females by RTI International, Spelman is ranked number one for producing African American female doctorate recipients.

Dr. Price loved her alma mater and had enormous pride at having been a DNIMAS⁠Footnote3 5 Scholar. I recall her saying frequently to me “Behold, the Green and Gold.” We both felt strongly that our time and training at NSU (for Dee) and XULA (for me) really prepared us to be scholars and leaders. Our professors held high standards, but also instilled confidence in us to be able to pursue and persist to the finish line of doctorates in the mathematical sciences. Our trajectories and achievements are due to our supportive families, our encouraging mentors/professors, and our impactful HBCU experiences.

In a communication written for the February 2024 AMS Notices entitled “Making Journeys of Black Mathematicians,” the filmmaker Csicsery, stated, “I quickly learned that [HBCUs] were an integral part of the story for many African-American mathematicians.” He went on to say, “Several scholars mentioned that Black students with undergraduate backgrounds at an HBCU earn more PhDs in mathematics than those who completed their undergraduate studies at predominantly white institutions (PWIs)” 4.

In the tribute written by Spelman College after Dr. McBay’s passing 15, Dr. Sylvia Bozeman is quoted as saying,

It was also my good fortune, as I determined later, to be jointly interviewed by Dr. Shirley McBay, and Dr. Etta Falconer, chairperson of the Department of Mathematics [in 1974]. During my interview it became apparent that these two women were on a mission, determined to increase the number of African American women in science and mathematics, beginning with Spelman College.

This was precisely the case! In the Spelman College Archives, there is an article written by Dr. McBay, which is stamped as being received by the Office of the President on March 10, 1976 9. In this article, she begins by providing all the statistics that reflect the “Black Underrepresentation in Science,” both from a national perspective and a Spelman perspective. She outlines the “identified barriers,” lists “strategies to remove barriers,” and provides “evidence of success.” What is incredibly remarkable is that in 1976, Dr. McBay had created a comprehensive strategic plan for increasing participation of women and students of color in STEM, that was not only applicable for Spelman, but for the nation. The strategies that she outlined are still relevant today and perhaps served as the roadmap for her work at MIT on the QEM Project and her vision for the QEM Network. The QEM Network has been impactful not only on HBCUs, but other MSIs, including tribal colleges. QEM is most known for the QEM workshops that were organized by Dr. McBay for faculty and institutional teams from MSIs to participate in intensive sessions designed to assist in developing competitive proposals for funding opportunities at the National Science Foundation. In addition, the QEM Network has produced numerous reports that describe their work and beneficial resources.

Leaving a Legacy

Dr. Shirley M. McBay and Dr. Dionne L. Price were pioneers, trailblazers, mentors, and leaders who made significant impacts in the mathematical sciences community. Because of their influence in changing the face of STEM, their contributions are being recognized in momentous ways. On October 7, 2022, the University of Georgia dedicated the library they renamed in honor of Shirley Mathis McBay, PhD.

On April 26, 2024, the FDA held a memorial service for Dr. Price and announced the establishment of the “Dionne Price Memorial Award” by the FDA Statistical Association. The announcement stated that “this prestigious award aims to preserve Dionne’s legacy in a meaningful manner, and to recognize statisticians who have made significant contributions to advancing statistical methodologies in regulatory science.” ASA has also launched the “Dionne Price Public Lecture Series,” which will “showcase rising stars in statistics and data science.” Additionally, Norfolk State University has established the “Dr. Dionne Price Scholarship,” which accepts funds to support students following in Dee’s footsteps.

The legacy of these phenomenal women will be cemented for generations to come!

Lifelong Inspiration!

These Black women are true inspirations for me. I am both honored and humbled that I had the opportunity to interact with, learn from, be mentored by, and to share in decades-long friendships with them. Their presence here on earth is deeply missed. I will forever cherish their memories. I marvel at their lifelong commitments to and lasting legacies for diversifying STEM. They loved mathematics and statistics, understood the importance of mentorship, and had a strong commitment to increasing the representation in mathematics, and STEM more broadly.

In the March 2024 President’s Corner in AMSTAT NEWS 5, current ASA President, Dr. Ghosh-Dastidar, shared the words of former ASA President, Dr. Kathy Ensor, who introduced Dr. Price before her presidential address at JSM 2023:

Dionne Price’s journey as a leader has been defined by her passion for creating impactful change in the lives of others. Dionne has an innate ability to bring people together, empowering them to collaborate towards a common goal. Her inclusive approach ensures that diverse voices are heard. Beyond her role as ASA president, she continues to be a source of inspiration [emphasis by author] to countless individuals, mentoring and nurturing emerging leaders. Her commitment to empowering the next generation of change makers ensures a sustainable legacy of progress that will endure far beyond her tenure.

Though Dr. Price and Dr. McBay may have approached diversifying STEM in different ways, they were both committed to opening doors and ensuring that STEM professionals and leaders are reflective of this nation as a whole. It is indeed their legacy and lifelong inspiration.

“We will always have STEM with us. Some things will drop out of the public eye and go away, but there will always be science, engineering, and technology. And there will always, always be mathematics [emphasis by author].” — Katherine Johnson, NASA Research Mathematician

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This article was originally published on the American Mathematical Society's website on December 31, 2024. It is reprinted here with permission. The content remains unchanged except for formatting adjustments for this website. 

Citation: First published in Notices Amer. Math. Soc. 71 (December 2024), published by the American Mathematical Society. ©2024 American Mathematical Society.

Editor's Note: References can be found in the original article print