The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) is proud to announce the Ximena Catepillán as the 2025 recipient of the most prestigious award for distinguished service to the field of mathematics.

Yueh-Gin Gung and Dr. Charles Y. Hu Distinguished Service Award

This award honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to mathematics and significantly and positively influenced the field of mathematical education on a national scale. 

About This Year’s Recipient

Dr. Catepillán is currently a Professor Emerita of Mathematics at Millersville University. During her earlier years as a professor, Dr. Catepillán demonstrated a deep commitment to leadership, cultural inclusivity, and educational access within the mathematical community. In the Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware (EPaDel) section of the MAA, Dr. Catepillán has held various leadership positions, such as Vice President, Chair, and Member-at-Large. Dr. Catepillán's contributions to the Careers in Mathematics Conference helped transform the event, with one colleague stating, “The Careers in Math Conference may have ceased happening if she didn’t take the helm.” 

Dr. Catepillán chairs the MAA’s Special Interest Group on the History of Mathematics and pioneered the translation of Convergence articles into Spanish, significantly broadening access to mathematical content. As noted by a recommender, “she has personally evolved into an informal emissary of mathematics between the English and Spanish speaking worlds.” 

Through her experience in ethnomathematics, she developed several courses that expose students to mathematical practices from Indigenous cultures. In addition, Dr. Catepillán has hosted several workshops and mentored students from underrepresented backgrounds, inspiring individuals locally and internationally.

This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Catepillán’s enduring commitment to fostering inclusive, culturally informed, and meaningful mathematical experiences for students, educators, and communities. Her work continues to shape the mathematical landscape and serves as an inspiration to others across the field. 

Learn more about the award and submit a nomination. 

About MAA 

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