About Us

Meet David Gay...MAPPS Coordinator

I love mathematics and love sharing it. The best moments of my forty years of teaching college mathematics were when light bulbs went on and students exclaimed “Aha!”

Much of my time at the University of Arizona, I spent with future teachers of mathematics and with math teachers in Arizona schools. I also love to write and have written three college textbooks: Solving Problems Using Elementary Mathematics, Geometry by Discovery, and Explorations in Topology: Map Coloring, Surfaces, and Knots.

I was the Principal Investigator for several projects having funding from outside the University, including teacher-enhancement programs for middle school teachers and programs to take Family Math into Arizona’s small towns and cities. I was the Principal Investigator (along with Marta Civil) of the NSF-funded project that developed and piloted the MAPPS program.

My educational background includes a BA from Princeton and a PhD in mathematics from Dartmouth. Before coming to the U of A in 1977, I taught at UC Berkeley, Talladega College (Alabama), and New College (Sarasota, FL). 

Personal note:  I am married and have two children. When I'm not concentrating on mathematics,  I enjoy playing the pipe organ, hiking and reading mystery stories.  I am also a  gourmet cook, so you may just find me in the kitchen practicing my culinary skills.


           

Meet Mary Schumacher...MAPPS Director

Even as a little girl, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. My earliest memories are those of my two younger sisters and me playing school. I, of course, was the teacher! Later on, I was inspired by my high school Geometry teacher to pursue my passion. With his encouragement, I got my BS from North Dakota University and a MST from the University of Arizona. I truly love math and working with youngsters, teachers and parents.

Currently, I am the MAPPS Director, which allows me to travel the country and lead professional development sessions. I love traveling and meeting with different teachers and parents setting up Math and Parent Programs. I have also had the privilege of co-authoring the MAPPS Guidebook, Workshops and Mini-Courses.

With 30 years of experience in math education, I joined the MAPPS Center in Tucson. Previously, I taught high school mathematics, was Math Department Chair and was involved in leading Math Professional Development Sessions. I have also written math curriculums. 

Personal note:  I am married and I have one daughter who is happily married and one grandson. In my spare time, you will find me in my sewing room working on my quilts or hiding out in the  Northwoods!