In Service, For Service, … To Serve
Hortensia Soto, Colorado State University
MAA President Retiring Address

Wednesday, August 6
MAA MathFest 2025

Abstract: A common phrase used in Spanish is de qué sirve. It literally translates to, “Of what does it serve?” The phrase is also used to ask or question such as: what is the point, what is the use, what difference does it make, what is it used for, how does it help, etc. Without knowing, this phrase has been ingrained in my professional life with teaching, conducting research, and engaging in service. In this presentation, I want to discuss de qué sirve to be a member of the MAA. As part of this (hopefully engaging) conversation, I will share how the MAA nos sirve in various ways.

Biography: Hortensia (Tensia) Soto is a Professor and Graduate Director in the Department of Mathematics at Colorado State University. Her research centers on the teaching and learning of K-16 mathematics where she adopts an embodied cognition perspective. Hortensia has mentored young women and promoted mathematics via summer outreach programs and frequently facilitates professional development for K-16 teachers. Tensia is a working member of the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) where she has served as the Associate Treasurer, the Associate Secretary, as an editor of the MAA Instructional Practices Guide, and MAA President. She is a proud recipient of the MAA Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Award for Distinguished College or University Teaching of Mathematics. In her spare time, Hortensia enjoys hiking, snowshoeing, practicing yoga, meditating, and spending time with her son Miguel.