The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) is thrilled to announce that Jordan S. Ellenberg has been awarded the 2025 Chauvenet Prize.

Chauvenet Prize 

The Chauvenet Prize, named in honor of William Chauvenet, a mathematics professor at the United States Naval Academy, is presented annually at the MAA’s national meeting. It recognizes outstanding expository writing in mathematics, celebrating articles that make complex ideas accessible and engaging.

About This Year’s Recipient

In Geometry, Inference, Complexity, and Democracy, Jordan S. Ellenberg examines the challenge of fairly dividing democratic polities into legislative districts. Drawing on his 2020 Current Events Bulletin lecture, Ellenberg highlights recent mathematical approaches to measuring fairness, illustrating both their strengths and limitations with compelling examples from the U.S. and beyond.

Avoiding technical jargon, Ellenberg makes intricate ideas understandable and relevant, offering a thoughtful exploration of how mathematics can inform and influence democratic processes. His work underscores the power of mathematics to engage with pressing societal issues, an exemplary model of expository writing and scholarship.

Learn more about the prize 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.