AMATYC 2024
Mathematics Leadership Excellence Award Recipients
Vilma Mesa
Vilma Mesa is recognized for her exceptional commitment to elevating the role of community college mathematics within the broader mathematics community at regional, national, and international levels. Since 2007, Vilma has authored numerous articles and contributed to over 45 presentations at national and international conferences, emphasizing the importance of the community college mathematics experience.
She has secured nearly $4 million in National Science Foundation grants since 2016, funding projects that exemplify genuine partnerships with community college faculty. Through these projects, Vilma has amplified faculty voices, ensuring their experiences and insights are heard and respected. Her contributions also include assisting with revisions to the Beyond Crossroads standards document and serving as an inaugural member of the Research in Mathematics Education for Two-Year Colleges Academic Network (ANet).
As noted in a letter of recommendation, "Vilma is an endearing and humble giant whose character and work are both inspiring and cherished."
She has secured nearly $4 million in National Science Foundation grants since 2016, funding projects that exemplify genuine partnerships with community college faculty. Through these projects, Vilma has amplified faculty voices, ensuring their experiences and insights are heard and respected. Her contributions also include assisting with revisions to the Beyond Crossroads standards document and serving as an inaugural member of the Research in Mathematics Education for Two-Year Colleges Academic Network (ANet).
As noted in a letter of recommendation, "Vilma is an endearing and humble giant whose character and work are both inspiring and cherished."
Linda Zientek
Linda Zientek is celebrated for her leadership in advancing community college improvement initiatives and for her unwavering professional support of her colleagues. Linda has had an extraordinarily productive research career, having published over 50 papers focused on enhancing two-year college education. Her contributions are so impactful that the Southwest Educational Research Association (SERA) renamed its Outstanding Paper Award in her honor, now known as the SERA Linda Reichwein Zientek Outstanding Paper Award.
Linda has also been a key contributor to AMATYC publications, including the IMPACT document and Beyond Crossroads revisions. Former students describe her as a caring and responsive mentor who consistently demonstrates kindness and professionalism.
As stated in a letter of recommendation, "She is a highly motivated professional who constantly challenges herself, her colleagues, and her students to reach their utmost potential."
Linda has also been a key contributor to AMATYC publications, including the IMPACT document and Beyond Crossroads revisions. Former students describe her as a caring and responsive mentor who consistently demonstrates kindness and professionalism.
As stated in a letter of recommendation, "She is a highly motivated professional who constantly challenges herself, her colleagues, and her students to reach their utmost potential."