Jenna Carpenter, founding dean of the School of Engineering and professor of engineering at Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina, was named president-elect of the Mathematical Association of America. She will become president of the association on July 1, 2024. Dr. Carpenter is currently the president of the American Society for Engineering Education.
The Mathematical Association of America is the world’s largest community of mathematicians, students, and enthusiasts. The organization’s mission is to “accelerate the understanding of our world through mathematics, because mathematics drives society and shapes our lives.”
“It is an honor to have the opportunity to serve alongside so many great MAA members and staff to advance understanding of mathematics and its impact on our world,” Dr. Carpenter said. “I bring a variety of national-level experiences in STEM education, giving me opportunities to develop a solid understanding of the challenges we face, as well as innovative strategies and solutions. I have been able to advocate as a thought leader for changes and new approaches rooted in evidence-based practices. I have also taught college math classes for three-and-a-half decades at three very different institutions.”
Dr. Carpenter began her role as dean and professor of engineering at Campbell University in 2015. Prior to coming to Campbell, Carpenter was the Wayne and Juanita Spinks Endowed Professor, associate dean for undergraduate studies, and director of the Office for Women in Science and Engineering at Louisiana Tech University’s College of Engineering and Science.
A Corsicana, Texas, native, Dr. Carpenter earned her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Louisiana Tech and a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in mathematics from Louisiana State University.