Mathematics Department Chair John Travis Receives National Honor

Mathematics Department Chair John Travis

Mississippi College’s Mathematics Department chair, John Travis continues to receive accolades. The latest comes from the Mathematical Association of America.

On August 2, Travis was presented the organization’s Meritorious Service Award. The honor came at the MAA MathFest in Cincinnati, Ohio.

The nation’s outstanding math educators were showcased for their dedication to teaching and engaging students.

“The contributions to the mathematics community we recognize today are crucial to the core values of MAA,” said Michael Pearson, the group’s executive director. “We are proud to honor our colleagues for their dedication to their commitment to MAA’s mission.”

Travis was among just seven math educators across the USA receiving the award in 2019. The group’s awards have been presented every year since 1984.

At the podium at the event in Ohio, Travis expressed his thanks to his family, math colleagues and Mississippi College. He encouraged students, teachers and others to serve in the association.

With more than 14,000 members, the Washington-based organization was founded in 1915. The professional society stays focused on mathematics, stretching from high schools to graduate school. The group remains the world’s largest association of mathematicians, students and enthusiasts. Members include computer scientists, statisticians and mathematicians.

In December 2018, Travis delivered the keynote address at Mississippi College graduations on the Clinton campus.

On February 26, the Clinton resident was honored at the Capitol along with other educators and college students from schools statewide.

Dr. Travis was saluted in Jackson at the 32^nd annual Higher Education Appreciation Day - Working for Academic Excellence program. Travis was recognized by the Mississippi House and Senate. It happened following his selection in 2018 as MC’s Distinguished Professor of the Year.

HEADWAE is supported by the Mississippi Legislature and sponsored by the corporate community. He’s served as chair of the university’s Math Department since 2004. An MC graduate, the Clintonian is the author of the online text titled “Essentials of Mathematical Probability and Statistics.”

Travis has served as the chair of the MAA’s Committee on Technology in Mathematics Education from 2013-16. He’s helped host regional meetings of mathematics educators on the Clinton campus.