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Allegheny College Mathematics Professor Dr. Tamara Lakins has received the 2020 Meritorious Service Award from the Mathematical Association of America (MAA).

The Certificate of Meritorious Service, announced in a video ceremony in July, was presented for service at the national level or for service to a section of the Mathematical Association of America. There were five award recipients honored nationwide.

Lakins has been active in the Mathematical Association of America since arriving at Allegheny in 1995. During her first year at Allegheny, she participated in the national MAA professional development program for new Ph.D.s, called Project NExT (New Experiences in Teaching).

“Many aspects of Project NExT greatly informed my teaching as a new professor at Allegheny,” said Lakins. “My continued relationship with MAA’s Project NExT, both nationally and in the local Section NExT I helped cofound in 1999, has enabled me to stay connected with current pedagogical conversations. Participating, and eventually becoming a leader, in the local MAA section gave me a valuable connection to the local mathematics community in western Pennsylvania and West Virginia. I have greatly valued and benefited from those friendships and professional relationships, and I was greatly honored to receive a 2020 MAA Certificate of Meritorious Service.”

“The individuals we honor represent the spirit of community that is at the heart of the Mathematical Association of America,” said Michael Pearson, executive director of the MAA. “Their willingness to give of their time, energy, and expertise to benefit their Sections and beyond serves as a fresh reminder of why the MAA remains so close to my heart.”

The Mathematical Association of America is the world’s largest community of mathematicians, students and enthusiasts. Its mission is to accelerate the understanding of the world through mathematics because mathematics drives society and shapes lives. Learn more at maa.org.