African-American Mathematics: Landmarks and Projects

Ninth in the Annual Series of Symposia "Without Number: Mathematics and Culture"

Saturday, April 26, 2008
Boston University, MCS Building (Mathematics and Computer Science)
111 Cummington Street
Rooms 135 and 149

Start Time: 10:00 am - End Time: 5:00 pm


Continental Breakfast and Poster Session:
Showcasing the work of African-American Students 10:00-10:45 am

WELCOMING REMARKS 10:45
Kenneth Elmore, Dean of Students


Panel Discussion 11:00-12:30
African-American Mathematics: Success in the Professions

Moderator: Kenneth Elmore, Dean of Students, Boston University

Panelists:

  • Reginald Jean, Boston University, Coordinator, Academic Curriculum and Teaching
  • Donald F. St. Mary, Professor Emeritus of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Massachusetts Amherst
  • Suzanne L. Weekes, Associate Department Head, Department of Mathematical Sciences, and Associate Director Center for Industrial Mathematics and Statistics, Worcester Polytechnic Institute


    Luncheon Reception: 12:30-2:00
    Keynote Address 2:00-3:00

    The Maryland Experience: Building a community of African-American graduate students

    Chair: TBA

    Abstract

    I will describe the process that led to the recruitment and graduation of a significant number of African American mathematics students at the University of Maryland and give my view of the essential elements for such a program. Our successes came after a number of failures, which formed the basis of our later success.


    Coffee Break 3:00-3:30


    Panel Discussion 3:30-5:00
    African-American Mathematics: How to Succeed as Students

    Moderator: Terrence Richard Blackman, Department of Mathematics, Medgar Evers College, CUNY

    Panelists:

  • Isabelle Agbassi, Metropolitan College, Boston University
  • Rajini Jesudason, Education Consultant
  • A discussion and workshop on educational opportunities, study skills, the application and grant-seeking process, given by graduate students and local mentors