Events
Plenary Talks
- Moon Duchin - Interdisciplinarity and Inclusivity
- Luis A. Leyva - Racialized and Gendered Logics in Postsecondary Mathematics Departments that Shape Mechanisms of Inequality in Undergraduate Calculus Instruction
Date and Time: June 27, 10 am
Link: https://umich.zoom.us/s/97902706378
Bio: Click here.
Abstract: Historically marginalized student populations experience undergraduate mathematics classrooms as racialized and gendered spaces. Calculus plays a unique role in STEM higher education as a gatekeeper of advanced mathematics coursework and academic majors across scientific fields. However, features of instruction that reinforce and disrupt oppressive functions of undergraduate calculus have been minimally examined. In this plenary, Leyva presents key insights from his published research that fill this gap. His multi-year project funded by the National Science Foundation, titled COURAGE (Challenging, Operationalizing, and Understanding Racialized and Gendered Events) in Undergraduate Mathematics, explores student and faculty perceptions of calculus instruction. Data analysis revealed mechanisms of instruction rooted in departmental logics (i.e., shared set of assumptions, norms, and values) that shaped inequitable opportunities to learn content, build positive mathematics identities, and persist in STEM majors. Leyva also draws on COURAGE findings to depict how equitable instruction in calculus confronts racism and patriarchy as systems of power upholding logics of mathematics as a white, masculine space. The plenary concludes with implications for practice in undergraduate mathematics that broaden identity-conscious educational opportunities for historically marginalized populations.
- Pamela Harris - Multiplex Juggling Sequences and Kostant's Partition Function
Date and Time: June 30, 2 pm
Link: https://umich.zoom.us/s/97902706378
Abstract:
Multiplex juggling sequences are generalizations of juggling sequences (describing throws of balls at discrete heights) that specify an initial and terminal configuration of balls and allow for multiple balls at any particular discrete height. Kostant’s partition function is a vector function that counts the number of ways one can express a vector as a nonnegative integer linear combination of a fixed set of vectors. What do these two families of combinatorial objects have in common? Attend this talk to find out!
Panels
- How to Find an Advisor
Date and Time: June 21, 3 pm
Link: https://umich.zoom.us/s/97902706378
Panelists: Caroline Davis (University of Indiana Bloomington), Phillip Lo (UChicago), Scott Neville (UM), Anna Brosowsky (UM)
Abstract:
Our panelists will address this all important question and also expand on topics of what makes a good academic advisor, and how to cultivate a relationship with an advisor.
- Challenges in Graduate Student Advocacy
Date and Time: June 24, 3 pm
Link: https://umich.zoom.us/s/97902706378
Panelists: Emilee Cardin (UM - GSI LCIT), Bernardo Bianco Prado (UM - GSI LCIT), Karthik Ganapathy (UM - GEO), Malavika Mukundan (UM - AWM)
Moderator: Michael Mueller (UM - GEO)
Abstract:
This panel is regarding the various student-led organizations that advocate for graduate students. Some questions that will be explored are:
What does advocacy for grad students look like?
What resources do the represented groups provide?
What challenges do they face in their work?
How do they overcome these challenges?
How to get involved in such groups?
- Discussion with Group Leaders
Date and Time: June 29, 2 pm
Link: https://umich.zoom.us/s/97902706378
Panelists: Jack Burkart (UW Madison), Rankeya Datta (Michigan State University), Yusheng Luo (SUNY Stony Brook), Neel Patel (ICMAT), Allechar Serrano López (Harvard University), Rishi Sonthalia (UCLA), Rachel Webb (UC Berkeley), Rebecca Winarski (College of the Holy Cross)
Abstract:
This will be a panel discussion with the MREG 2022 group leaders regarding their experiences through grad school and navigating an academic career. We will collect questions in advance from the participants.
Other Events
The following events are restricted to program participants.
- Discussion With Graduate Students
Date and Time: June 22, 12 pm
Abstract:
This will be a discussion with grad students about various aspects of grad life. This is not a discussion about academics; rather, the emphasis will be on aspects more social/communal. Participants will be divided into groups, with each group being led by a moderator. Students are invited to share their thoughts on the following:
How does one cultivate a professional support system?
Which parts of the culture in math spaces you have access to are inclusive/ non-inclusive?
How does one seek support in/ work to improve a non-inclusive environment?
The many facets of work-life balance
- Rackham Graduate School: Workshop on Mentoring
Date and Time: June 28, 1 pm
Moderators: Maggie Gardner (Rackham Graduate School, UM), Emma Flores (Rackham Graduate School, UM)
Abstract: The advisor/advisee relationship is critical to graduate student success. Participants in this workshop will reflect on the roles that their advisor will play in their graduate education, as well as the importance of establishing a broader network of support and mentorship. We will also discuss a process for developing and agreeing upon shared expectations with your advisor so that you set yourself up for a positive working relationship.