Distinguished Teaching Award

Award for

for

Distinguished College or University

Teaching of Mathematics

presented to

John Fink

The Michigan Section of the Mathematical Association of America is pleased to announce that Professor John Fink of Kalamazoo College has been selected as the 2000–2001 recipient of the Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching of Mathematics.

Professor Fink has been a teacher of mathematics for 25 years, and he has always been intensely involved in the experience. His excellence as a classroom teacher has been recognized previously by Kalamazoo College’s Francis Diebold Award for outstanding interest and participation in student events (1999).

Professor Fink has been for many years involved in the “calculus connection”, which strengthens ties between the college and local high schools. He has tutored very bright junior high school students in the area. He developed materials for that program based on synthetic geometry. His teaching emphasizes problem solving, critical thinking skills, communication, and mathematical connections. Professor Fink has also trained teams to compete in the annual American Regions Math League competition.

Professor Fink was the key member of the writing team for the “Learning by Discovery” series for calculus reform. Eric Nordmoe, one of Professor Fink’s colleagues at Kalamazoo College, said, “It is indeed an honor to work every day with one who has done so much to enhance mathematics education, both locally and beyond, among students of all ages.”

Comments from colleagues and students include the following:

“Very enthusiastic about the material.”

“Very good lectures.”

“Did a great job getting the material across to us.”

“Allowed free exchange of ideas.”

“A very homey class.”

The Michigan Section of the Mathematical Association of America is proud to be represented by dedicated teachers such as Professor John Fink.