Mathematics and Mountaintops

Who/What:      

Scott Annin, Cal State Fullerton professor of mathematics, will present “Mathematics and Mountaintops” at the April 14 Mathematical Association of America (Southern California-Nevada Section) meeting on campus.

When:      

Saturday, April 14
1:25-2:20 p.m.

Where:      

Cal State Fullerton’s Steven G. Mihaylo Hall, Room 1502
800 N. State College Blvd., Fullerton, 92831

Background:      

For the last five summers, Annin has been a “Hikemaster” with the YMCA of the Rockies near Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. As an avid hiker and hiking guide, he takes guests and staff members on treks in and near the national park, which vary from one- to two-mile strolls to major hikes of 15-20 miles to snowcapped mountain summits. While his talk isn’t about hiking, he draws an analogy between guiding people on journeys to new places and beautiful vistas to another passion of his: guiding his math students on journeys of discovery in math through research experiences.

Presentation:     

Annin will discuss some of the “best treks” he has shared with his students over the years in teaching and in research. He also will discuss research projects involving his CSUF students and the process of supervising student projects in math. Annin, who has taught at the university since 2002, calls it a privilege to lead thousands of students on journeys to their own mountaintop moments in mathematics, “especially those who have never before had the chance to enjoy the view.”

Why:      

“While the view from the summit is amazing, it’s the getting there that is most inspiring,” said Annin, also vice chair of the Mathematics Department. “And so it is with mathematics. The moment of mathematical discovery is breathtaking, but the hard work and perseverance required to get there are what truly make the moment meaningful.”

Media Contacts:      

Scott Annin, Mathematics, 657-278-7678 or sannin@fullerton.edu
Debra Cano Ramos, 657-278-4027 or dcanoramos@fullerton.edu