WASHINGTON, DC (Jan. 16th, 2020) The most prestigious award for service will be given to Gerald J. Porter on January 16, at the Joint Mathematics Meetings in Denver, the world’s largest gathering of mathematicians. Porter will receive the Yueh-Gin Gung and Dr. Charles Y. Hu Award for Distinguished Service. This award consists of a cash prize of $5,000, a citation, and the recognition of the American mathematical community. The recipient will be honored for their contribution and influence to the field of mathematics or mathematical education.
Porter has been a faculty member at the University of Pennsylvania since 1965 and has spent decades in service to the MAA in a variety of capacities. Porter has contributed to mathematics and the mathematical community for many years by publishing substantive papers, being at the forefront of teaching, and writing a pioneering book using active learning. Additionally, he has mentored many young mathematicians, nominated them for awards and committees, and welcomed them at the section and national meetings. Although retired from teaching, he is still very active in the educational community and is currently serving as an advisor to students.
“MAA is a stronger organization because of Jerry’s contributions and for his insistence that we are fair, inclusive, and welcoming,” said Michael Pearson, executive director of the MAA. Jerry is the definition of distinguished service from which the MAA, and our profession, will long benefit.”
Response from Gerald J. Porter
“During my years in the MAA I have served with many of the previous award recipients: Lynn Steen, Ken Ross, Jerry Alexanderson, Len Gillman, Lida Barrett, and Martha Siegel to name a few. It is an incredible honor to join them as a recipient of this award. Those of us who serve mathematics and the mathematics profession do so because we think that it is important work that needs to be done.” He quotes Emerson, “The reward of a thing well done is having done it,” and says “external recognition is not expected but when it is received, it is warmly appreciated.”
About MAA
The Mathematical Association of America is the world’s largest community of mathematicians, students, and enthusiasts. We accelerate the understanding of our world through mathematics because mathematics drives society and shapes our lives. Learn more at maa.org.
