Associate Professor of Mathematics Adebukola Adeyemi's FlagSHIP course, “Biases… Who Said Women Don’t Do Mathematics?!,” challenges students to rethink assumptions and celebrates the achievements of remarkable female mathematicians.
The local FlagSHIP emphasizes the historic accomplishments of female mathematicians, especially the NASA 'human computers' featured in Margot Lee Shetterly's book, Hidden Figures, and its 2016 blockbuster film adaptation.
“For centuries now, women have been making huge impacts in mathematics, despite the various challenges and obstacles in their way,” her course description reads. “Some of these mathematicians are the NASA team of ‘human computers’ who made major impacts in early spaceflight, the first Nigerian woman to lead a major University, and the first woman to earn a Ph.D. from the University of Michigan.”
The course's focus on the opportunities and challenges faced by pioneering female mathematicians deeply resonated with students, leading to 'ah-ha' moments as they confronted industry misconceptions.
A highlight is the day trip to the Kennedy Space Center, where students learn about NASA's history and the significant contributions of female mathematicians.
This trip was particularly impactful as students reflected on the history of the Kennedy Space Center and drew parallels between the hidden contributions of women in NASA and the broader themes of the course.
"The Kennedy Space Center was amazing,” one student shared. “Seeing the shuttles and ships allowed me to grasp just how much time, effort, and [how many] people it took to explore space. There are so many moving components to a rocket launching into space and lots of them go unseen to the public, just like how the ladies in Hidden Figures went unseen.”
Throughout the FlagSHIP course, students gained insights into their cultural orientations, analyzed power structures shaping opportunities, and embraced new perspectives. These experiences, aligned with the FlagSHIP mission, prepare students to be informed and ethical global citizens.
“This course challenged me to examine my beliefs and biases,” another student wrote in their course reflection. “I realized how much my identity is shaped by both my experiences and the assumptions I carry. This has inspired me to approach the world with a more open mind and a willingness to learn from others. The atmosphere was more collaborative and reflective, and the relationships I formed with my classmates were deeper because of the topics we discussed.”
Adeyemi's FlagSHIP celebrates the achievements of renowned female mathematicians despite the obstacles they faced. This inspires students to overcome their own challenges and support others in their pursuits.
Join Us at the FlagSHIP Fair
All FlagSHIP-eligible students are encouraged to attend the FlagSHIP Fair. Meet faculty leading upcoming FlagSHIP courses, explore posters, and learn about the various options available.
Date: Monday, March 31
Time: 1 to 4 p.m.
Location: First floor of Proctor Library
