Last year, The Cambridge School welcomed Dr. Francis Su, Benediktsson-Karwa Professor of Mathematics at Harvey Mudd College & President of Mathematical Association of America, for a Classical Collegium lecture. Before the event, we had a chance to talk with him about Beauty and Math.
Francis Edward Su is the Benediktsson-Karwa Professor of Mathematics at Harvey Mudd College. He received his B.S. in Mathematics from the University of Texas at Austin and his Ph.D. from Harvard University. He is currently President of the Mathematical Association of America. His research is in geometric combinatorics and applications to the social sciences, and he has co-authored numerous papers with undergraduates. He also has a passion for teaching and popularizing mathematics. From the Mathematical Association of America, he received the 2001 Hasse Prize for expository writing, and the 2004 Alder Award and the 2013 Haimo Award for distinguished teaching. He authors the popular Math Fun Facts website and iPhone app. His hobbies include songwriting, gardening, photography, and theology. Just like mathematics, these are modes of creative expression that divinely blend structure and freedom, truth and beauty, reflection and action.
Are you defined by your accomplishments? Is your self-worth tied to your achievement?
Dr. Su will share some personal stories that help illuminate why the achievement-oriented mindset that afflicts our culture may not be the best way to thrive.