The Mathematics Department received the 2010 American Mathematical Society Award for an Exemplary Program or Achievement in a Mathematics Department.

The award recognizes a college or university math department that has distinguished itself by undertaking an unusual or particularly effective program of value to the mathematics community, internally or in relation to the rest of society.

In a press release on the AMS Web site, Steven Bleiler of Portland State University, who served as chair of the selection committee, said the committee came to a full consensus that the University was ‘first among equals.’

“N.C. State’s particular combination of a strong commitment to outreach, well thought-out programs for students, and a long-standing dedication to diversity in the mathematics work force is singularly worthy of recognition and emulation by the broader mathematical community in these difficult times,” Bleiler said.

According to Dr. Aloycius Helminck, head of department of mathematics, the award nomination committee said the University “really hit a home run,” in regard to research in a broad range of areas, high-quality teaching and mentoring, strong ties to industry, and a welcoming environment for underrepresented groups.

“[AMS] really values the fact that the University is not only known as a premier research institution, but at the same time, an institution that cares about their students,” he said.

In the press release, the department is praised for “its blend of interdisciplinary and foundational research in mathematics, which creates a vibrant atmosphere and strong ties to other areas of science and engineering as well as industry and laboratories.”

According to Michael Shearer, professor of mathematics, one of the main aspects that distinguishes the University from others is the fact that  involves undergraduates and graduates in research very early on.

“When students first arrive on campus, they have the opportunity to start research straight away and that’s pretty unusual in mathematics,” he said. 

Helminck said having research experience early on enhances the educational experience

“You go to a premier university so you can get an experience you can’t get anywhere else.  We help students succeed in their chosen careers,” he said.  “We are really one of the top places to do mathematical research in the nation.”

Erin Bancroft, a third year Ph.D. student, agreed.

“You get research experience in your first year of graduate school, which is really good.  You’re guaranteed to get it for one summer when you come it,” she said. 

In addition, several graduate students participate every year in industrial research at institutions such as Harvard Medical School, MIT Lincoln Lab, National Institute of Environmental Health, Boeing, and Aerospace Corporation

“The most famous national labs —you don’t get those [internships] unless you’re doing something good,” Helminck said. 

Though the University is recognized for its successful research programs, the achievement that stands out the most is the department’s success in graduating students traditionally underrepresented in mathematics.

At the undergraduate level, approximately one-quarter of the graduates come from underrepresented minorities, according to Helminck.

Shearer said one of the focuses of the department was encourages women to pursue a mathematical degree, especially in their graduate program. 

The percentage of female graduate students has steadily increased from its historic average of around 33 percent to 49 percent. 

Since 1999, there has been 38 African-American math Ph.D.s —23 males, 15 females.  The University has produced 13 of them —9 females, 4 males. 

The department has also awarded Ph.D.s to several students of Hispanic origin, along with two students of Native American origin. 

Bancroft said the diverse environment helps students succeed. 

“The population is diverse — from lots of different backgrounds and lots of different areas,” she said.  “It’s not as competitive inside the department.  It’s more of a camaraderie.  We’re working together for a common goal instead of trying to be cutthroat with each other.”

In addition, she said the faculty plays a vital role in the success the department has had. 

“The professors are not only knowledgeable, but they are friendly, open and willing to talk to us. They are willing to give us the advice and to lead us into the direction we want to take with our research.”

The official announcement of the award, including the selection committee’s citation, will appear in the May 2010 issue of the Notices of the AMS.