Mathematical Association of America

Mathematical Association of America. The Mathematical Association of America is the largest professional society in North America focused on undergraduate education in the mathematical sciences. Founded in 1915, it is dedicated to the interests of collegiate mathematics faculty, students, and all who are engaged in or appreciate the study of mathematics. The association fosters the understanding and vitality of the discipline through its publications, professional development programs, and advocacy for the central role of mathematics in society.

History

The organization was established in 1915 in Columbus, Ohio, following a call by Benjamin F. Finkel, founder of the American Mathematical Monthly, to create a national body for collegiate mathematics. Its founding was supported by prominent figures like E. H. Moore of the University of Chicago and J. W. A. Young. The early association grew alongside the American Mathematical Society, with which it shared overlapping membership but a distinct focus on teaching rather than pure research. A significant early milestone was its role in standardizing the undergraduate mathematics curriculum, notably through the work of committees like the Committee on the Undergraduate Program in Mathematics. Throughout the 20th century, it expanded its influence through key initiatives such as the Putnam Competition, first administered in 1938, and the establishment of its headquarters in Washington, D.C..

Organization and governance

The association is governed by a Board of Directors elected by its membership, which includes the President, Past President, and President-elect. Its operations are managed by an executive director and staff at its headquarters in the Raymond J. Lane building in Washington, D.C.. The membership is organized into 29 regional sections across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, such as the Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Section and the Pacific Northwest Section, each holding annual meetings. Key policy and programmatic work is conducted by numerous committees and special interest groups, including the Committee on the Participation of Women and the Special Interest Group on Research in Undergraduate Mathematics Education.

Publications

The association publishes a wide array of influential journals and books. Its flagship journal, the American Mathematical Monthly, founded in 1894 and acquired by the association in 1915, features expository articles and mathematical problems. Other major periodicals include Mathematics Magazine, The College Mathematics Journal, and the research-oriented MAA Focus. The MAA Press publishes notable book series such as the Dolciani Mathematical Expositions, the Anneli Lax New Mathematical Library, and the Classroom Resource Materials series. It also produces important curricular guidelines and reports, like the influential CUPM Curriculum Guide and the Common Vision report.

Programs and activities

The association runs numerous programs to advance mathematics education and community. Its premier event is the annual Joint Mathematics Meetings, held in partnership with the American Mathematical Society. It administers the prestigious William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition and supports student chapters at colleges nationwide. Professional development is offered through Project NExT for new faculty, PREP workshops, and the MAA MathFest summer meeting. Major public outreach and teacher support initiatives include the MAA American Mathematics Competitions, the Tensor Foundation grants for women and minorities, and the MAA Distinguished Lecture Series.

Awards and recognition

The association bestows a suite of awards honoring excellence in teaching, writing, and service. Its highest teaching honor is the Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Award, while the Chauvenet Prize recognizes outstanding expository writing. Other significant awards include the Lester R. Ford Award for authors in its journals, the Henry L. Alder Award for early-career teaching, and the Gung and Hu Award for distinguished service. It also confers the Euler Book Prize for an exceptional popular book, the MAA Certificate of Merit, and the George Pólya Award for notable articles in the College Mathematics Journal.

Category:Mathematical organizations Category:Mathematics education organizations Category:Organizations based in Washington, D.C.