Linda Gojak, past president of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, will deliver the 2023 Serafini Distinguished Lecture "Everything You Do in Mathematics Should Make Sense!" on Thursday, October 12, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in Leonard Hall. Student volunteers will be on hand to direct attendees to the lecture.
In her talk, she will emphasize that mathematics is a subject of joy and wonder. She will delve deeper into the art of making sense in learning math, unraveling strategies and insights that can transform the way we perceive and approach this captivating subject. Gojak will also explore the key principles and techniques that foster true understanding and comprehension in mathematics, while sharing practical advice and engaging anecdotes, revealing how to break down barriers and bridge the gap between confusion and clarity.
Linda M. Gojak has served in many roles with the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics over the years, including president of NCTM (2012–14) and serving as a member of the NCTM Board of Directors (1996–99) and on various NCTM committees. She has also served as president of the National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics, the Greater Cleveland Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and the Ohio Council of Teachers of Mathematics. She has held leadership positions in the Council of Presidential Awardees in Mathematics, the Triangle Coalition, the Mathematical Sciences Education Board, and the Ohio Mathematics Education Leadership Council. She currently serves as the president of the Board of Directors of Mathkind, a nonprofit organization that works with teachers to build strong mathematics programs in third-world countries.
The Serafini Distinguished Lecture Program is funded by Terry and Janet Serafini. Terry Serafini was born and raised in Western Pennsylvania and is a 1961 graduate of IUP, having earned his bachelor of science degree in mathematics education. While at IUP, he served as Student Government president and was active in many university organizations. After serving as an officer in the US Army, Serafini began his business career in 1964 as a computer systems marketing representative for the IBM Corporation. Six years later, he became a partner and co-owner of Computerpeople, Inc.
Linda Gojak's talk is cosponsored by IUP’s Department of Mathematical and Computer Sciences, Pennsylvania Council of Teachers of Mathematics, Pennsylvania Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators, and Laurel Highlands Mathematics Alliance.