Idaho State Univ. Profs. Selected for Mathematical Association of America Project NExT Fellowship

Recently, Emanuele Zappala, assistant professor, and Maryam Bagherian, incoming assistant professor, were selected for the group’s Project NExT (New Experiences in Teaching) Fellowship. The professional development program for early career faculty focuses on “improving the teaching and learning of mathematics, engaging in research and scholarship, finding exciting and interesting service opportunities, and participating in professional activities,” according to the MAA. Additionally, it also provides fellows “with a network of peers and mentors as they assume these responsibilities.”

“Receiving the Project NExT fellowship is a transformative opportunity for me,” said Zappala. “It means joining a vibrant community dedicated to advancing the teaching and learning of mathematics. Through this fellowship, I hope to refine my pedagogical skills, engage in meaningful research, and build a network that will support my growth and contributions to the academic mathematical community.”

“I recognize the immense value of Project NExT in supporting early-career mathematicians like myself,” said Bagherian. “Being a part of this program will not only provide me with valuable resources and support but also enable me to make meaningful contributions to the field of mathematics. I am excited about joining the vibrant community of Project NExT and advancing my career in mathematics.”

Over 2,000 academics have participated in the Project NExT fellowship program since its inception in 1994. At Idaho State, assistant professors Xiaoxia “Jessica” Xie and Derek Eckman were selected for the 2023 cohort. Meanwhile, Patrick Rault,  professor and chair of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, and Cathy Kriloff, professor, were in the 2008 and 1996 cohorts, respectively. 

“The Project NExT program has been transformative for both my career and my students," said Rault. "As university mathematics instructors, we have the unique opportunity to engage with high school graduates who aspire to become scientists, engineers, health professionals, and more. Project NExT equips us with the skills and connections to harness this opportunity fully, empowering our students with the math skills, confidence, tenacity, and camaraderie they need to thrive in their future careers."

For more information on Idaho State University’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics, visit isu.edu/math.