The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) is ecstatic to announce the 2024 Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Awards to Candice Price, Jan Rychtář, and Malena Español.
Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Awards
The Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Awards honor college or university professors who have been widely recognized as extraordinarily successful and whose teaching effectiveness has been shown to have had influence beyond their own institutions.
Candice Price, Smith College
The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) proudly recognizes Dr. Candice Price for her outstanding dedication and service to the mathematical community. Dr. Price's warm, inclusive classroom and programs have made a profound impact on students and teachers alike, fostering a nurturing environment where individuals thrive.
One observer remarked, "For students in her class, Dr. Price's teaching extends far beyond mathematics. "She instills confidence in her students, empowering them to advocate for themselves and affirming their sense of belonging in any space they choose to excel in."
Reflecting on her recognition, Dr. Price expressed her gratitude: "I am grateful for all of the support and guidance I have received to be a better person in the classroom."
Dr. Price's exceptional approach to teaching not only advances the understanding and appreciation of mathematics but also empowers students to reach their full potential.
Jan Rychtář, Virginia Commonwealth University
The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) celebrates Jan Rychtář for his exceptional impact on students and colleagues through his teaching and undergraduate research programs. Rychtář’s dedication to advancing mathematics education has positively influenced countless students and faculty across MAA programs and conferences.
Rychtář expressed his gratitude upon receiving the recognition: "Thank you! I am honored and grateful to be one of the award recipients. First, I would like to thank the MAA as a whole, as well as all the individual members working tirelessly to make a huge difference in students' and teachers' careers, including my own. The MAA’s core values—community, inclusivity, communication, and teaching and learning—provide endless inspiration. Incorporating these values into my classrooms and beyond has had a tremendous impact on my teaching."
"Second, I would like to thank all my former and current students. Through our interactions, they all helped me become a better teacher and mentor. I can only hope that I made a positive impact on their lives too. Third, a big thank you goes to many mentors that I was fortunate to learn from. I cannot name them all, but let me explicitly thank Drs. Mary Crowe, Michael Dorff, Hyunju Oh, my colleagues at VCU, and former colleagues at UNC Greensboro. They, and many others, have my deep gratitude for all the lessons they taught me. I can only aspire to be as good as them."
"Finally," Rychtář added, "I would like to dedicate this award to my family, Dewey and Walter. They are the loves of my life and I am so happy to be with them. Their constant support and encouragement are irreplaceable."
Jan Rychtář’s commitment to excellence in teaching and his significant contributions to the mathematical community make him a true asset to the MAA.
Malena Español
As a distinguished scholar-teacher with experience at various institutions in both the US and Argentina, Dr. Español has made a lasting impact on her students and the mathematical community.
Dr. Español's approach to education extends beyond the classroom. She consistently works to remove barriers to participation for all students, particularly women and other underrepresented groups. Her commitment to students' success and well-being is evident in her innovative teaching methods and supportive mentorship.
In response to receiving the recognition, Dr. Español expressed her gratitude and motivation: "I am so honored to receive this award! As an applied mathematician, it inspires me to continue using math to solve real-life problems and shape curious minds."
Her dedication to advancing mathematics education and supporting student success has made her a respected and influential figure in the field.
More information on the award and how to submit a nomination.
About MAA The Mathematical Association of America is the world’s largest community of mathematicians, students, and enthusiasts. We accelerate our understanding of our world through mathematics because mathematics drives society and shapes our lives. Learn more at maa.org.