Who is Sonia Kovalevsky?

ESU joined schools and colleges nationwide in honoring the life of Russian mathematician Sonia Kovalesky today. Professor Elizabeth Yanik coordinates “Sonia Kovalevsky Day” along with professor Marvin Harrell. Yanik explained why ESU has chosen to take part in the celebration for the past ten years.

QUESTION:

Who is Sonia Kovalevsky?

ANSWER:

Sonia Kovalevsky is the first woman in modern times to receive a doctorate in mathematics. She was born in Moscow in 1850 and moved to Germany in 1868 to study under Karl Weierstrass at the University of Berlin. He privately tutored her because the university did not allow women to attend. She did her most important work in the theory of differential equations, which are invaluable for showing rates of change.

In July of 1874, Kovalevsky was granted a Ph.D. from the University of Gottingen. In 1883, she became a lecturer at the University of Stockholm and was later became the first female math professor. She died of influenza at the age of 41.

QUESTION:

Why do we celebrate her birthday?

ANSWER:

Sonia Kovalevsky High School Mathematics Day is a national program started in 1985 by by the National Security Agency and the Association for Women in Mathematics. ESU began hosting the event ten years ago with the help of the Wolf Creek Nuclear Operating Company. The event recognizes women in their junior year of high school who have excelled in their mathematical studies.

QUESTION:

What sorts of activities does ESU have planned?

ANSWER:

Students are invited to campus with their teacher for the day-long celebration. We have career discussions by professional women in mathematical professions, hands-on workshops, a luncheon in the Colonial Ballroom, and a special math problem-solving session involving the whole group. This year, we’re going to have a special celebration of the tenth anniversary of Sonia Kovalevsky Day at ESU.

QUESTION:

Why is it important to encourage women to pursue careers in mathematics?

ANSWER:

For a number of reasons, such as self-confidence problems, stereotyping and lack of parental support, many girls tend to lose interest in math in middle school. As a result, they are underrepresented in scientific and technical careers. Even though women make up half the workforce, they make up less than a quarter of workers in technology, science and engineering. Sonia Kovalevsky day is just one of the ways ESU supports young women in math. We also have “Expanding Your Horizons” and the summer “MASTER IT!” math camp which reaches out to middle school students.

 

Last Updated July 2, 2007>