Dr. Matthew Morena has received a prestigious national honor “for his remarkable contributions to mathematics education.”
Morena is one of three professors nationwide to receive the Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Awards for Distinguished College or University Teaching of Mathematics. The award by the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) honors faculty “who are widely recognized for extraordinary teaching effectiveness and whose influence extends beyond their own institutions.”
This is the second consecutive year that Morena, an associate professor in the Department of Mathematics, has received a major MAA award. Last year, he was honored with the John M. Smith Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching.
Morena’s energetic and creative teaching style makes him a sought-after instructor for students, especially those for whom math is not a favorite subject. The MAA spotlighted that approach in its announcement of the Haimo Award:
“A professor at Christopher Newport University, Morena has spent 12 years challenging and engaging students across nearly 20 courses, ensuring each leaves with a meaningful appreciation for the power of mathematics.
“Morena's teaching is highly active and creative, incorporating instructional videos, campus photography, and outdoor activities to bring mathematical concepts to life. His innovative approaches have been published in PRIMUS, making them available to instructors nationwide.
“Through Community-Engaged Learning (CEL), his students partner with local organizations to apply mathematics to real community needs, producing analyses that directly inform organizational decision-making. He also mentors students in long-term research projects modeling real-world phenomena, with many presenting their work at regional and national conferences.
“Reflecting on the award, Morena wrote, ‘I am deeply honored to receive the Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Award. I am grateful to the Mathematical Association of America, to the selection committee, and to the colleagues who supported this nomination.’
“His innovative pedagogy, genuine care for students, and commitment to using mathematics as a force for community good make him a most deserving recipient of the Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Award.”
As word of the honor spread across campus and through the Mathematics Department, Morena’s colleagues added their own congratulations. “Matt's dedication to students and to the teaching of mathematics has an impact both within and beyond our institution, and I am pleased to see that work recognized nationally,” said Dr. George Kuster, chair of the department. “This is great news for our department and for the University!”