The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) is proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Awards for Distinguished College or University Teaching of Mathematics: Monique Chyba, Angie Hodge-Zickerman, and Yvonne Lai.

Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Awards
The Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Awards honor college or university professors who are widely recognized for extraordinary teaching effectiveness and whose influence extends beyond their own institutions.

Monique Chyba, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa

The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) celebrates Monique Chyba for her extraordinary commitment to building community through mathematics. At the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, she reimagined Math 100 into a vibrant, place-based course developed in collaboration with faculty and Native Hawaiian leaders. Her work has made mathematics more meaningful, accessible, and culturally relevant for students.

A former student noted, “Overall, I have gotten to experience Monique Chyba’s joy and success of teaching math both first and second-hand. She is able to inspire students and help them unlock their potential like very few teachers I’ve met, and I will always credit her as the start of my journey into mathematics and teaching.”

Her impact also extends to programs like “808 Math Island Style: Computational Modeling and Simulation of Epidemic Infectious Diseases” where middle school students explore real-world data on infectious diseases with guidance from college mentors.

Dr. Chyba’s innovative approach empowers students to connect math to their lives, communities, and the world around them. The MAA is honored to present her with this award. 

Angie Hodge-Zickerman, Northern Arizona University

The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) proudly recognizes Angie Hodge-Zickerman for her exceptional contributions to mathematics education. As an Associate Professor at Northern Arizona University, she utilizes active and inquiry-based learning strategies in both undergraduate and graduate courses, creating a collaborative and engaging environment for her students.

Reflecting on the honor, Dr. Hodge-Zickerman shared: “This recognition is not mine alone. I am deeply grateful to my mentors, teachers, colleagues, and the incredible community of educators who have supported and challenged me throughout my journey. A special thanks to my students, past and present, who remind me why this work matters. To my family and friends, thank you for your support and encouragement. Ever since I was a child, I dreamed of being a teacher, and your belief in me has been a constant source of strength on this journey.”

Her dedication is further demonstrated in her role as co-PI on the NSF-funded “the NAU Noyce Scholars Program: Educating the STEM Teacher from Recruitment to Induction,” which supports the recruitment and development of STEM educators. The MAA is honored to recognize her passionate teaching and lasting impact on students and the broader mathematics community.

Yvonne Lai, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) is honored to recognize Dr. Yvonne Lai for her transformative work in mathematics education and teacher preparation. At the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, she leads inclusive, active-learning environments that promote deep engagement and belonging. 

A student shared, “She makes you feel like your ideas matter and should always be taken into consideration. This is the most welcome I have ever felt in a class in my college career.”

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Lai has demonstrated national leadership. She is the founding chair of the MAA’s Special Interest Group on Mathematical Knowledge for Teaching (SIGMAA-MKT) and a former chair of the Committee on the Mathematical Education of Teachers (COMET).

After receiving the award, Dr. Lai expressed her gratitude: “I am truly honored to receive this award from the MAA. Past Haimo awardees are exemplary leaders, ambassadors, and advocates of mathematics teaching and learning, and I am humbled to be joining them.” 

Dr. Lai continues to elevate mathematics education through inclusive practices, research-informed teaching, and impactful service to the mathematical community.

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.