We’ve had an exciting start to the fall term here in the Faculty of Mathematics.
September and October saw the Faculty host an inspiring slate of events, including Math+ X, an interdisciplinary discussion of data and computation featuring researchers from all six faculties; the Cheriton Research Symposium, a showcase of research excellence made possible by David R. Cheriton’s generous investment in education; and the second annual Key Clues Competition, a community engagement activity in which teams solve a series of puzzles.
These events brought together our extended community, connecting alumni, students, researchers, external partners and even colleagues from other Faculties. Each was a remarkable success and a reminder of just how much synergy we generate when we have the opportunity to meet, share ideas and perspectives, and work collaboratively on joint projects.
I left each event feeling energized and optimistic about the future of the University. It’s precisely this spirit of engaged collaboration that we need to cultivate as we enter the next chapter of our history and begin to realize the ambitious goals laid out in the Waterloo at 100 vision through the ambitious projects instigated through our Mathematics Strategic Framework.
This issue of E-Ties is a wonderful testament to the strength and vibrancy of our extended community. We feature:
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A profile of the former President and CEO of the CN Investment Division Russell Hiscock (BMath ’75), who recently made a very significant contribution to create a new statistics and actuarial science lab in M4;
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An interview with David MacKinnon, chair of the Department of Pure Mathematics, who shares his views on the beauty, purpose and fun of pure mathematics.
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An interview with Ty Ghaswala (PhD ’17), the Principal Enigmatologist of the Key Clues Competition, as well as a sample puzzle for your enjoyment.
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An account of the CEMC’s Ian Vanderburgh’s trip to India, where he engaged with educators, school administrators, and guidance counselors, facilitating the exchange of best practices in mathematics teaching, enrichment and teacher training; and
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A story about Alan George, former Dean of the Faculty of Mathematics, and his recent gift to the CEMC to support the Elementary School Innovation Project.
I hope you enjoy the issue!
Finally, I'd like to share that the University of Waterloo's Giving Tuesday campaign is taking place on November 28 this year. On this day, people around the world will come together in support of their communities and the causes they love. We hope you will consider supporting the Faculty of Mathematics. Stay tuned for more information on how you can support our initiatives.
Warmest regards,
Mark Giesbrecht
