News and Events
Explore our latest news and events to see how our department celebrates discovery, collaboration, and the joy of mathematics.
There’s always something happening in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics! From celebrating Pi Day with pizza, pie, and hands-on activities to honoring the achievements of women in mathematics each December, our events bring together students, faculty, and alumni in a spirit of curiosity and community. We also host engaging colloquia and career days, as well as social events like our and ice cream social that connects math beyond the classroom. Check out faculty publications, student accomplishments, and research highlights throughout the year as well.
Department News
Honors Scholars in Mathematics and Statistics recognize outstanding undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, dedication, and promise within the mathematical sciences. Selected annually, Honors Scholars meet rigorous GPA and credit-hour milestones and exemplify excellence in scholarship, persistence, and commitment to their discipline.
Congratulations to our 2026 Honors Scholars:

Jonathan Kerr - Applied and Computational Mathematics
I'm honored to be chosen as this year's Honors Scholar for Applied and Computational Mathematics and humbled to be thought of so highly by the faculty. With regards to the display case, I've attached below a headshot photo of myself. As for a quote, "The Applied and Computational Mathematics program has been a joy to work through. The professors have a clear passion for what they're teaching and are very dedicated to helping all their students understand the material. I always felt that they were there to support me and help me grow as a mathematician. The material itself has introduced to me so many ways in which mathematics shows up throughout our lives, and has helped me to truly appreciate how much math does for us. Overall, the program has been a fantastic experience".
Last year I was nominated the Honors Scholar for the Mathematics Bachelor's degree, and for that I was asked to provide a favorite quote for the display case. You did not mention that here, but I'll provide one just in case you need it. "And know this, the day will come when all these skirmishes and battles, these moments of defiance will have flooded the banks of the Empire's authority and there will be one too many. One single thing will break the siege. Remember this. Try" (Karis Nemik. "The Axe Forgets." Star Wars: Andor, season 1, episode 5). This is part of a larger quote, and I like it because it reminds us that even if a task seems impossible, all we need to do is try and the impossible can be achieved.
Olivia Caron - Mathematics
Through learning from the diverse fields of thought within mathematics, whether within or without my courses at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, I have found the rigor and logic of mathematics strikingly beautiful. Never again will I think a number uninteresting or inelegant after Elementary Number Theory, nor will I ever view continuity with such carelessness after Advanced Calculus. Providing opportunities to participate in competitions and work on research, the mathematics program has challenged me to grow both technically and personally and has inevitably changed the trajectory of my education. I am very grateful to the Mathematics and Statistics Department whose encouragement and genuine enthusiasm inspire me to pursue a PhD in mathematics after graduation.

Kaitlynn McKenna - Applied Statistics
The mathematics programs here at Dearborn truly shaped who I am today. From the mentorship, classes, and overall environment, I’m walking away not just with a degree, but with the confidence and resilience needed to make a meaningful impact in the world of data and risk. I am grateful to be a part of such an enriching community here at Dearborn.
Honors Scholars in Mathematics and Statistics recognize outstanding undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, dedication, and promise within the mathematical sciences. Selected annually, Honors Scholars meet rigorous GPA and credit-hour milestones and exemplify excellence in scholarship, persistence, and commitment to their discipline.
Congratulations to our 2025 Honors Scholars:

Emilee Gootee - Applied and Computational Mathematics
Favorite Quote: "If people do not believe that mathematics is simple, it is only because they do not realize how complicated life is." -John von Neumann
Why this program?: "I have always felt welcomed and supported by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and its exceptional faculty. Whether it was for academic guidance or career advice, there was always someone ready to help. The staff's genuine investment in my success and their willingness to support me every step of the way made a significant impact on my education. Thanks to their dedication, I feel confident in my future, and I truly grateful for the experience."

Hania Imran - Actuarial Mathematics
Favorite Quote: "Being an actuary is 50% knowing statistics and 50% explaining to people that you're not an accountant."
Why this program?: "I thoroughly enjoyed working with the Actuarial Mathematics faculty. They were incredibly supportive, and I always felt comfortable reaching out for help when needed. The department was also very accommodating and effectively connected the coursework to its real-world applications in the field."

Jonathan Kerr - Mathematics
Favorite Quote: "It's the job that's never started that takes the longest to finish" -J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings
Why this program?: "I like how dedicated the professors are to helping everyone understand the material, and the enthusiasm with which they approach it. You can tell that these people know math, enjoy math, and want you to come to experience math like they do. I always felt that they were there for any guidance I needed, and they pushed me to become a better student."
Read about our Department with updates, faculty research and scholarship, promotions, projects, exciting events, our outstanding students and their accomplishments, graduates, and all things Mathematics and Statistics over the course of the year.
Mathematics Colloquia
Our colloquia is a schedule of academic events that bring together students, faculty, and guest speakers to explore current research, engage in hands-on problem-solving, and discuss ideas across diverse areas of mathematics.
Organizer: Tian An Wong
*Please email the organizer if you wish to be added to the colloquium mailing list and receive invitations for future talks.
| Date | Location | Speaker | Title | Affiliation |
| 6/3/26 | CB 2048 | Jun Kitagawa | The semi-discrete optimal transport problem and some numerical approaches | MSU |
| Date | Location | Speaker | Title | Affiliation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/10/26 | CB 2046 | Thomas Fiore | Topological Machine Learning Discovery of Cycles in Musical Chord Spaces: the Uniqueness of the Over-Determined Triad | UM-Dearborn |
| 4/27/26 | CB 2048 | Yunus Zeytuncu | Improving Gröbner Basis Algorithms Through Reinforcement Learning | UM-Dearborn |
| 3/30/26 | CB 2048 | Joseph Stierman, Sena Fisher & Autumn Tashman | Actuarial Challenges in the World of Property and Casualty | UM & UM-Dearborn |
| 3/23/26 | CB 2048 | Jeffrey Martin | Evaluating Machine Learning Strategies for Reconstruction of Compton Scatter Tomography Images
| Hope College |
| 2/23/26 | CB 2048 | Matthew Wrase | Analysis is Good. Interpretation Is Great. Impact is What Matters | UM-Dearborn |
| 2/16/26 | CB 2048 | Kerby Shedden | Three Statistical Challenges in Human Biology | UM |
| 2/9/226 | CB 2048 | Kelly Jabbusch | What’s Next?: Peer-to-Peer Mentoring and Goal Setting for Faculty Advancement | UM-Dearborn |
| Date | Location | Speaker | Title | Affiliation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12/08/25 | CB 2024 | Michael Dabkowski | From Theory to Practice: My Consulting Experience | UM-Dearborn |
| 11/10/25 | CB 2024 | Michael Lachance | Ellipses inscribed in diagonal polygons | UM-Dearborn |
| 11/3/25 | CB 2024 | Menggang Yu | A New Algorithm for Risk Stratification based on Partially Ordered Risk Factors | U-M |
| 10/27/25 | CB 2024 | John Clifford | The Convexity of the Berezin Range | UM-Dearborn |
| 10/20/25 | CB 2048 | Elad Zelingher | On Kloosterman Sums and Their Matrix Generalizations | U-M |
| 10/6/25 | CB 2048 | Owen Ekblad | Quantum Mechanics and Randomness | MSU |
| 09/16/25 | CB 1041 | Andrew Ekstrom | Is Reproducibility Even Possible? | UM-Flint |
Department Events
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics host several events throughout the year. In March we celebrate Pi 3.14 day when students, faculty and staff enjoy slices of pizza, pie and themed activities! In September we host a sweet Ice Cream social. In December we honor and recognize women achievements in mathematics and statistics as well as celebrating the birthday of the late Mathematician Julia Robinson. Along with hosting career day events, math competitions and our special summer programming.
Below are some of our most current events.
The University of Michigan-Dearborn's Department of Mathematics and Statistics recently hosted the 50th annual Lower Michigan Math Competition on Saturday, April 11, 2026, marking a significant milestone in fostering mathematical talent among undergraduate students. This event brings together teams from primarily undergraduate institutions across Michigan, promoting collaboration and problem-solving skills in a competitive yet educational environment. The competition serves as a platform for students to engage with advanced mathematical concepts, encouraging critical thinking and creativity under timed conditions.
Teams consist of three students each, who are given a three hour window to tackle ten challenging problems designed to test their depth of mathematical knowledge. These problems span various topics in pure mathematics, requiring participants to apply theorems, logical reasoning, and innovative approaches to arrive at solutions. An example from this year's competition asks whether there exist 2025 integers whose sum and product both equal 2025, while another asks the same question for 2026 integers.
Professors Dabkowski and Wiggins support student preparation through weekly problem solving sessions held each semester. UM-Dearborn students have the opportunity to participate in multiple mathematical competitions: the Lower Michigan Math Competition in the Winter term, the Autumn Challenge in the Fall term, and the MAA Putnam Exam near the end of the Fall term. These competitions provide engaging challenges that enhance both mathematical skills and academic credentials. Students interested in participating should contact Professor Dabkowski or Professor Wiggins for more information.

Mahdi Aljaberi's solution to a math problem.

UM-Dearborm LMMC Team Members

Participants and Faculty Attendees
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics held its annual awards ceremony on April 13, 2026, celebrating the achievements of our students across multiple programs. During the ceremony, we recognized recipients of the Honors Award in their respective majors, along with students who earned the Academic Excellence Award. We also presented the Carl Rasmussen Award and several Emerging Scholar Awards. The Emerging Scholar Award, a relatively new addition, continues to play an important role in recognizing students outside of mathematics, statistics, and actuarial mathematics who demonstrate strong performance in our courses and a genuine enthusiasm for the subject.
A full list of recipients for these major awards is provided below:
Mathematics Honors Scholars
Mathematics: Olivia Carzon
Applied Statistics: Kaitlynn McKenna
Actuarial Mathematics: Alan Corp
Applied and Computational Mathematics: Jonathan Kerr
Carl Rasmussen Award for Excellence in Applied Mathematics: Carynn Moore
Academic Excellence Scholars: Hiba Akbar, Aravind Balasubramanian, Brendan Frieders, Naba Mohamad, Rouqyia Mohamad, Evelyn Niksa, Tanya Danial, Keegan Abbott, Param Patel, Shivani Madhu, Nicholas Yamine, Nathan Simma
In addition to these major recognitions, the department acknowledged a wide range of student contributions and accomplishments. These included awards for participation in mathematics competitions, contributions to the learning center, and student assistants. These recognitions reflect the many ways in which students contribute to the academic and community life of the department, both inside and outside the classroom.
One of the highlights of this year’s event was an interactive component in which both students and faculty responded to a shared set of questions. Their responses were then displayed and compared, offering a thoughtful and engaging perspective. For example, both groups were asked when they begin preparing for exams, with faculty reflecting on their own undergraduate experiences. The comparison provided useful insight into how study habits may have evolved over time and sparked meaningful conversation among those in attendance.
The ceremony was followed by a reception that allowed students to connect with one another and engage with faculty in a more informal setting. It was particularly encouraging to see increased participation from parents, whose presence added to the sense of community and shared celebration. Events like these continue to highlight not only student achievement but also the broader support network that contributes to their success.
As our graduating students move forward, we hope they will remain connected with the department. Whether sharing future successes or seeking guidance, that continued connection is meaningful to us as faculty and remains an important part of what sustains our work. We also extend our sincere thanks to our colleagues and student staff, whose efforts make events like this possible and help us carry out our mission.
“Probably no symbol in mathematics has evoked as much mystery, romanticism, misconception and human interest as the number pi”
~William L. Schaaf, Nature and History of Pi
The Department of Mathematics and Statistics collaborated with the Math Learning Center and Math Club to celebrate Pi day 3.14 on Monday, March 23. Over 135 students, faculty and staff joined us as we enjoyed pizza, pie and games.





Each year, the Department hosts a career panel, offering students the opportunity to engage directly with alumni from fields including mathematics, statistics, actuarial mathematics, and beyond. This year’s panel featured Clayton Durst (Analyst, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan), Blake Hanson (Actuarial Analyst, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina), Kris Tokarz (Senior Software Developer Manager, Above The Treeline), Hanna Damico (Core Biostatistician I, Van Andel Institute), and Austin Kipfmilller (Lead Economist, US Army Corps of Engineers).
About 80 students and faculty participated, gaining insights on the importance of internships, hands-on projects, networking, mental health, critical thinking, and communication skills. Prof. Vishwanathan moderated the discussion, facilitating engaging and interactive Q&A sessions.
This event forms part of the department’s ongoing commitment to student success, alongside resume workshops, mock interviews, and a curated list of employment and internship opportunities connecting students to careers in their chosen field.



Congratulations to the 27 women honored for their outstanding achievements in Mathematics, Applied Statistics, Actuarial Mathematics, and Applied and Computational Mathematics at our annual Women in Math celebration on Wednesday, December 3, 2025!
The event began with opening remarks and a brief overview of women in mathematics by Administrative Specialist Jasmine Stallion, Math Learning Coordinator/Lecturer Lexi Sullens presented a slide show that acknowledged our own faculty and their contributions and achievements in their professions. Attendees enjoyed games, prizes, awards, and cake, and we also celebrated the 106th birthday of renowned mathematician Julia Robinson.

In 2024, we honored 27 students at our Women in Math Day celebration. Professors Jabbusch and Mikula kicked off the event with opening remarks and presented a slide show showcasing women's achievements in mathematics. It was a memorable day filled with recognition and inspiration!
GirlsGetMath@Dearborn is a selective, tuition-free summer program designed to introduce high school students in Southeast Michigan to the exciting world of applied mathematics. Hosted by the University of Michigan-Dearborn, the program invites participants to dive into sophisticated topics often outside the standard high school curriculum, including image processing, graph theory, the mathematics of voting, recommendation systems, and cryptography. Through a dynamic mix of interactive lectures, fun games, hands-on experimentation, and daily computer lab activities, expert instructors foster a non-competitive and affirming environment that builds students' confidence and deepens their interest in the mathematical sciences.
Beyond technical skills, the program emphasizes professional growth and future planning by connecting students with mentors and real-world insights. Participants engage in career panels featuring successful women in STEM fields from organizations such as General Motors, the National Security Agency, and MathWorks, alongside sessions dedicated to college admissions and campus tours. This comprehensive educational experience is made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Mathematical Association of America, the JetBlue Foundation, ICERM, and the University of Michigan-Dearborn Department of Mathematics and Statistics.
Learn more about Girls Get Math and how you can get involved.

On September 18, 2025, undergraduate students from the UM-Dearborn Actuarial Mathematics program attended the annual Actuarial Career Expo, held on the University of Michigan’s Ann Arbor campus. The event brought together representatives from 25 companies, giving students a chance to ask questions about industry roles, internships, and career paths.
Before the expo, students prepared through mock interviews led by alumni Blake Henderson and Autumm Tashman, which several participants found helpful for building professional confidence. During the event, more than ten Dearborn students spoke with recruiters and explored a variety of opportunities. Many received follow-up interview invitations or placement offers.
For those interested in actuarial careers, attending the expo provided a practical look at the recruiting process and insight into what companies are seeking, while also offering a valuable chance for networking and professional growth.


Professor Mike Dabkowski and undergraduate students from the UM-Dearborn Actuarial Mathematics program at the annual Actuarial Career Expo in 2024.

The University of Michigan-Dearborn REU Site in Mathematical Analysis and Applications is an eight-week summer program. The research projects are related to Fourier analysis, complex analysis, operator theory, spectral theory, algebraic coding theory, and mathematical music theory. Selected participants will have a unique interaction with experienced faculty mentors in a rich intellectual environment, where they will learn how to use mathematical ideas to solve real-life problems.
The program will introduce participants to a large network of mentors and peers, which will assist them in career planning and in commitment to the scientific community. The program organizers will help students to find appropriate venues to present and publish their results. Additionally, students will learn more about the graduate school application process and career opportunities in academia and industry.
If you have any questions about REU at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, please contact Professor Zeytuncu at zeytuncu@umich.edu.
This REU program is supported by the National Science Foundation (DMS-2243808), the National Security Agency, the College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters, and the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Michigan-Dearborn.
Congratulations to all of the talented and hard-working students in Mathematics and Statistics who were honored at our Award & Recognition Ceremony on April 14, 2025! This event recognized students for academic excellence in Mathematics, Applied Statistics, Actuarial Mathematics, and Applied and Computational Mathematics. We also acknowledged those who have completed research projects and work to support students in our department as Office Assistants, Ambassadors and work in the Math Learning Center as Tutors and SI Leaders. This year's ceremony was very well attended. It took place in the Mary Kochoff Auditorium- 1030 CASL building followed by a reception on the second floor corridor.

Math Corps @ Dearborn is dedicated to free education, fostering a strong sense of family and community. In 2025, our four-week camp ran from July 7th to August 7th, with over 100 middle school students, 20 high school Teaching Assistants, and 10 college-level instructors/Assistants. Led by four main Instructors (including a local teacher) and a camp director (a Superintendent from the Warren school district), the experience was enriched by Executive Director Yunus Zeytuncu, who engaged with sponsors, Ballmer Group, United Way and GDYT as well as guided campus tours. Professor Mike Dabkowski helped deepen our ties with UM-Ann Arbor and strengthen community bonds.


Our department proudly supports students in their mathematical journeys by taking them to top competitions like the Michigan Autumn Mathematics Competition, the William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition, and the Lower Michigan Mathematics Competition! Whether tackling tough problems or building community, our students are ready to shine. Interested in joining? Reach out to learn more!
The Michigan Autumn Mathematics Competition takes place in early November and is open to college students from Michigan and nearby regions. Teams of two or three students tackle 10 tough undergraduate math problems within three hours on their home campus, supervised by faculty.
The William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition is held nationally on the first Saturday in December, featuring two three-hour sessions with a lunch break in between. Each session includes twelve advanced math problems covering topics like group theory, set theory, graph theory, lattice theory, and number theory. It's overseen by faculty and administered by the Mathematical Association of America.
The Lower Michigan Mathematics Competition (LMMC) occurs every spring, inviting teams from lower Michigan colleges to solve 10 rigorous problems in three hours. Teams consist of 2-3 students and compete to showcase their mathematical skills and teamwork.
2025 Autumn Mathematical Challenge Participants
Chirag Salvi, Nicholas Yamine and Greg Yeghiyan came in second place in this year's Fall Autumn Math Challenge. The team of Olivia Carzon, Marcus Wada and Madhi Aljaberi came in fifth place. Both are very strong showings from our students!

2025 Putnam Mathematical Competition Participants
Olivia Carzon, Praise Olatide, Marcus Wada Adam Chami, Mahdi Aljaberi, Lana West

2025 Lower Michigan Math Competition
Olivia Carzon, Adam Chami, Praise Olatide, Chirag Salvi, Marcus Wada
2024 Autumn Mathematical Challenge Participants
Mahdi Aljaberi, Olivia Carzon, Adam Chami, Mohamed Manasir and Marcus Wada
2024 Putnam Mathematical Competition Participants
Mahdi Aljaberi, Olivia Carzon, Adam Chami, Praise Olatide, Marcus Wada and Lana West
2024 Lower Michigan Mathematics Competition Participants
Mahdi Aljaberi, Olivia Carzon, Adam Chami, Praise Olatide, Chirag Savli, Marcus Wada and Lana West
2023 Lower Michigan Mathematics Competition
Autumn Tashman, Sarah Mccan and Blake Hanson came in tenth place overall.


Ice cream + math = the perfect equation for fun! Thanks to all our faculty, math, stat, and actuarial majors who joined for a sweet time at our annual Ice Cream Social on Monday, Sept 15, 2025.
Looking forward to more math, mingling, and tasty treats next year!
Michigan Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators Conversations among Colleagues Conference
The 2024 conference, organized by Professors Angela Krebs, Nesrin Cengiz-Phillips and Margaret Rathouz, was held at the University of Michigan-Dearborn campus on Saturday, March 16, 2024.
The conference launched with a plenary talk, proceeded into breakout discussion sessions organized by topic themes to address key questions posed by participants and session facilitators, and conclude with a second plenary talk. The conference closed with the annual MI-AMTE business meeting.

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics hosted a Math Kangaroo competition on March 19, drawing more than 50 students to campus for the international mathematics challenge. The event gave young learners an opportunity to engage with creative problem-solving in a supportive and academic environments.

