Professor Receives Award for Distinguished Teaching in Mathematics

From “confusion to euphoric understanding” is the goal Dr. Sharon Robbert, professor of mathematics, sets for her students to reach on their projects, according to this professor’s faculty profile.

She has been teaching math at Trinity since 1993 and was recently recognized for her good and faithful work with the Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching of Mathematics (Illinois Section of the Mathematical Association of America [MAA]).

The award recognizes “teachers of mathematics who have been extraordinarily successful at the post-secondary level. Award recipients are outstanding teachers who foster excitement about mathematics in their own students, and whose influence in teaching has gone well beyond their own institution,” according to the Illinois Section website. 

Colleagues Dave Klanderman and Mandi Maxwell, professors of mathematics, kept the good news to themselves until Robbert, who was notified she was receiving some recognition but not the exact award, was honored with a plaque at the spring meeting of the section. 

Robbert said when she realized which award it was she was “humbled,” explaining that in order to receive it, a teacher must be nominated by another section member. She said just being nominated was an honor.

Robbert is a long-time member of the MAA and served the Illinois section as director at large as well as in the role of financial reviewer for 10 years.

At Trinity, Robbert also serves as the dean for academic planning and effectiveness. She and her family attend Western Springs Christian Reformed Church.