The study of mathematics at Sewanee forms part of the preparation of informed and discerning citizens, capable of critically analyzing information, weighing alternatives and presenting reasoned arguments in order to navigate a rapidly changing world. While crucial for students who pursue concentrated study in mathematics or computer science, the exposure to abstraction and concise reasoning is also invaluable to students in fields as far-ranging as law, science, economics, and theology.
Such study also serves as part of a well-rounded education in the appreciation of human endeavor. Like a sculpture or a concerto, a theorem or an algorithm is a creative work, and the department seeks to expose students to the beauty of this variation of artistic creation.
At Commencement, Prashanta Kharel, C ’12, of Kathmandu, Nepal and Mary Michael Forrester, C'12, of Kingsport, TN received the annual Robert Hooke Prize for Outstanding Performance in Mathematics. The prize is awarded to a graduating student majoring in mathematics . The prize is named for statistician and former Sewanee professor of mathematics Robert Hooke who wrote the popular book, How to tell the Liars from the Statisticians.
The Society of Sewanee Scholars held a dinner at the Sewanee Inn to honor “Best Teaching Practices” of the Sewanee faculty. Dr. Drinen was among 8 faculty chosen by the Society on the basis of his innovative and compassionate approach to teaching and learning. He was chosen to speak about his creative project assignments in Mathematical Modeling that showcased student initiative and ingenuity.
At the Founder’s Day Convocation, Justin Neal Miller, C ’15, of Tennessee received the annual Robert Hooke Prize for Achievement in Calculus. The prize is awarded to a student exhibiting special achievement after completion of the calculus sequence. The prize is named for statistician and former Sewanee professor of mathematics Robert Hooke who wrote the popular book, How to tell the Liars from the Statisticians.
