Northeastern Illinois University has opened the Mathematics Community Center, providing a central location for students of all disciplines to seek support and guidance for their mathematics needs, and to showcase the successes and accomplishments of students and faculty in the field of mathematics.
“I can’t think of a better way to start the academic year than the opening of the Mathematics Community Center,” Provost Richard J. Helldobler said at the Sept. 7 grand opening.
The center, which is located in Room 364 of Bernard J. Brommel Hall, is directed by Associate Professor of Mathematics Sarah Cordell, and its creation was a group effort with Department of Mathematics Chair Lidia Filus, Mathematics Development Program Instructor Stevan Ranney, Assistant Professor of Mathematics Joseph Hibdon and Assistant Professor of Mathematics Katherine Bird. Associate Provost Mark McKernin and Planning and Construction Interior Deisgner Anna Coleman also played important roles in designing the center.
The center will provide students from all disciplines with multiple opportunities for participation, leadership and success in mathematics through the use of peer-to-peer support, team learning, workshops and seminars. It will collaborate with a number of other Northeastern programs, including Project Success, Proyecto Pa’Lante, TRIO Student Support Services, the Learning Support Center and the Student Center for Science Engagement.
“It is critical that our students—particularly those studying in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields—have access to all resources available that can support their positive identity development and success in mathematics,” Cordell said. “The Mathematics Community Center will be a tremendous resource for the Northeastern community as a welcoming, collaborative and supportive space.”
