Jenna Carpenter, Professor of Engineering and Founding Dean at Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina, took office as the MAA’s new president-elect on July 1, 2024.

Carpenter has supported the MAA in a number of different roles, including at the section and national levels. She has worked to advance MAA programs and initiatives that support members and the work they do.

“I bring a variety of national-level experiences in STEM education, giving me opportunities to develop a solid understanding of the challenges we face, as well as innovative strategies and solutions,” Carpenter said. “I have been able to advocate as a thought leader for changes and new approaches rooted in evidence-based practices. I have [also] taught college math classes for three-and-a-half decades at three very different institutions. These types of experiences are important for anyone aspiring to leadership roles in the MAA.”

Carpenter received her BS in Mathematics from Louisiana Tech University. She was an Alumni Federation Fellow at Louisiana State University, where she received her PhD in Mathematics under the direction of Robert Perlis. Her work focused on quadratic forms over number fields.

Born in Corsicana, Texas, according to a 2017 profile of her on ABET.org, Carpenter is said to have grown up in Hope, Arkansas. Her Linked-In entry has her at Hope High School from 1977 to 1980 before attending the two universities in Louisiana.  After a 17-year career in teaching and administration at Louisiana Tech, she was hired at Campbell University in 2015.  Her May 29, 2013 Ted Talk entitled "Engineering - Where are the girls and why aren't they here?" got 87,018 views.

“The MAA must continue to advance the understanding of mathematics and its impact on our world, as well as cultivate community, promote inclusivity, lead in communication, and support teaching and learning. As MAA President, it would be an honor to partner with our members and the wider mathematics community to advance this vision,” Carpenter added.

About MAA

The Mathematical Association of America is the world’s largest community of mathematicians, students, and enthusiasts. We accelerate the understanding of our world through mathematics because mathematics drives society and shapes our lives.