Each year, the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) honors outstanding educators who are transforming mathematics education with the Henry L. Adler Award. We are proud to announce the 2025 recipients of this prestigious award: Elizabeth Arnold, Sarah Klanderman, and Shanise Walker.
Henry L. Alder Award
The Henry L. Alder Award for Distinguished Teaching by a Beginning College or University Mathematics Faculty Member honors early-career faculty whose teaching has been exceptionally successful and whose impact on undergraduate mathematics education extends beyond their own classrooms.
Elizabeth Arnold, Montana State University
Elizabeth Arnold is recognized for her inspiring and inclusive approach to teaching, which ignites a passion for learning in her students and enriches the broader mathematical community.
Dr. Arnold’s thoughtful feedback and engaging activities help students grow as learners and thinkers, while her inclusive teaching style ensures that every student feels seen, supported, and empowered. Her impact extends beyond the classroom through outreach initiatives like GirlsGetMath@CSU. She also co-created Cafecito con Matemáticas, an interactive evening event offered in both Spanish and English that fosters community engagement with mathematics.
Dr. Arnold is the co-author of two books that emphasize mathematical modeling through community-centered, empathetic problem solving. She also serves as co-editor of the MAA Notes volume An Aspirational Approach to the Mathematical Preparation of Teachers, which supports the development of meaningful curricula for future educators.
Her work exemplifies excellence in teaching and a deep commitment to using mathematics as a tool to connect people and ideas. The MAA is proud to honor Dr. Arnold with the Henry L. Alder Award.
Sarah Klanderman, Marian University
Sarah Klanderman is recognized for her exceptional commitment to student success, evidence-based teaching practices, and dedication to building an inclusive mathematics community.
Since joining Marian University in 2020, Dr. Klanderman has taught a wide range of courses using strategies that challenge students while nurturing their confidence and growth. Her teaching approach integrates evidence-based practices that encourage intellectual risk-taking, critical thinking, and effective communication. She participated in MAA Project NExT, the PCMI Undergraduate Faculty Program, and has taught various master classes.
Dr. Klanderman has also made a meaningful impact beyond her university by serving on the Marian steering group for the Indiana Women’s Prison College Program and is a PI or co-PI for various grants.
Upon receiving this honor, Dr. Klanderman shared: “I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this award and look forward to the next chapter of continually developing my teaching through countless lessons from these and many more inspiring individuals with whom I’ve had the privilege to work.”
Shanise Walker, Clark Atlanta University
Shanise Walker is recognized for her exceptional work as a teacher, mentor, and scholar, and for her unwavering commitment to student success in and beyond the classroom.
As an Assistant Professor at Clark Atlanta University, Dr. Walker teaches a variety of mathematics courses from introductory to graduate level using tools such as guided notes, interactive warm-ups, and real-time polling to foster engagement. .
One student shared: “whether it is reaching out to check in on us, advocating for us or providing support when we need it, she goes above and beyond to ensure we thrive academically and are prepared for life post-graduation.”
Dr. Walker’s influence reaches far beyond the classroom. She shares her insights through MAA Math Values blog posts, conference presentations, and her editorial contributions to the AMS publication Aspiring and Inspiring: Tenure and Leadership in Academic Mathematics. She also contributes to the NSF Education Core Research Program, “Studying Successful Doctoral Students in Mathematics from Underrepresented Groups”.
We congratulate Dr. Shanise Walker on this well-deserved recognition and celebrate her continued impact on mathematics education and the broader mathematical community.
Learn 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.