Lockheed Martin Supports Math Education

Lockheed Martin is partnering with Kennesaw State University to invest dollars and talent in high school students interested in mathematics. The company has awarded a $16,000 gift to help fund a summer camp program for high school students on the campus of Kennesaw State University, as well as provide funds to promote and support women in science and mathematics.

KSU’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics and the ATOMS Center (Advancing the Teaching Of Mathematics and Science) welcomed Lockheed officials for a special presentation during the KSU Math Circle Summer Camp for Georgia high school students. Chuck Tanner, a Lockheed systems engineer, spoke with campers about career opportunities in mathematics.

“This gift will support programs that encompass the mission of the ATOMS Center,” said Adrian Epps, director of KSU's ATOMS Center. “We are so thankful to have Lockheed Martin as a philanthropic partner to support mathematics opportunities for KSU students, high school students and area high school teachers.”

Through the KSU Math Circle Summer Camp, KSU faculty offer high school students collegiate mathematics learning opportunities that they would not normally see at the high school level.

“Lockheed’s generosity will also extend to Metro Atlanta Math Teachers’ Circle activities from August 2014 to May 2015,” said Joe DeMaio, chair of the KSU Department of Mathematics and Statistics. “Lockheed's gift will support Kennesaw Women in Mathematics, a program for collegiate women to network with outstanding achievers in math-related professions to create a broader perspective of the career opportunities in mathematics.”

The allocation of the gift is as follows: $10,000 for Associate Professor Virginia Watson's Math Teacher Circles ($5,000 for Math Teachers Circles throughout the year and $5,000 for the summer camp for high school students) and an additional $6,000 for Associate Professor Yuliya Babenko’s Kennesaw Women in Mathematics (KWIM).

“Lockheed Martin has a strong tradition of giving back both through philanthropy and the tireless volunteer work of our employees,” said Shan Cooper, vice president and general manager Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Marietta facility. “We think it’s important to encourage young people to continue their educational growth, especially in science and mathematics. These are the building blocks that help them to reach for the stars.”

The KSU Math Circle Summer Camp is a two-week day camp for 20 high school students to stimulate interest in the mathematical sciences. Students work in small groups with a faculty member on a mathematical project, learn from guest mathematicians and participate in mathematical activities.