UVa-Wise math professor receives teacher of the year award

Jennifer Wilson, a Senior Instructor of Mathematics at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise, has been named the William C. Lowry Teacher of the Year at the college level by the Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

A member of the UVa-Wise faculty since 1990, Wilson is also an alumna of the College. She was nominated for the award by fellow math educators and by UVa-Wise Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor Gil Blackburn.

“Jennifer Wilson has long been loved and recognized by her students in mathematics as a superb teacher,” Blackburn said. “She has been able to remove the fear of math – the ‘mathophobia’ – that many students feel. This recognition is well deserved, and we are all exceedingly proud of her.”

In his letter of nomination, Blackburn described Wilson as “quite simply, a superb teacher whose infectious style and engagement with her students leaves a lasting impression.”

Fellow mathematics teachers Yvonne Jessee and Karen Shuler shared a comment from students in their letter of nomination: “She always teaches in a way that is easy to understand… (and) is very dedicated to students and helping them succeed.”

Wilson earned her undergraduate degree in mathematics from UVa-Wise, and completed her master’s degree and doctoral coursework at Virginia Tech. Wilson is a two-time recipient of the UVa-Wise Outstanding Teaching Award.

The Virginia Council of Teachers of Mathematics works to stimulate an active interest in mathematics, to provide an interchange of ideas in the teaching of mathematics, to promote the improvement of mathematics education in Virginia, to provide leadership in the professional development of teachers, to provide resources for teachers and to facilitate cooperation among mathematics organizations at the local, state and national levels.

For more information, contact the Office of College Relations at 276-328-0130.

Posted July 31, 2007