The Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing (CEMC) is excited to announce the launch of The Mathematician Mosaic, an initiative aimed at recognizing and celebrating the diverse contributions of mathematicians across a wide range of disciplines. This project seeks to inspire students to explore and research the stories of influential figures in mathematics and computing—notably those from underrepresented backgrounds. Through the creation of biographical posters, students will spotlight the lives, careers, and stories of unsung people who have made significant impacts in a variety of fields—ranging from pure mathematics to data science.
“This is an opportunity for students to help present a more inclusive narrative of mathematical history. It will allow them to explore their creative side while discovering the diverse individuals who contributed to the mathematical sciences and may have been historically overlooked or underrepresented.”
— Fiona Dunbar, Co-Lead, The Mathematician Mosaic Project
Students are invited to submit posters showcasing mathematicians who have overcome adversity, pursued unique career paths, or belonged to marginalized communities. Whether working individually or in groups, participants will bring distinctive, remarkable chronicles to life and could have their posters featured on the CEMC website. This endeavour not only promotes creativity and learning, but also underscores the requisite for visibility and diversity within the mathematical sciences.
"I hope that the Mosaic project gives students an opportunity to discover and share what they learn about a wide variety of mathematicians,” says project Co-Lead Sachin Kotecha, “I'm excited to see what students submit, and learn a thing or two myself!”
Submissions will be accepted until January 17, 2025. We invite educators, parents, and guardians to encourage students’ involvement in this campaign.
“Educators may be interested in this project because it connects to some newer curriculum expectations in certain areas. The Mathematician Mosaic could be a way for students to work on a task that encompasses multiple subjects such as math, history, and language. It offers an opportunity for students to explore real-life applications of mathematics and careers in mathematics, and to create profiles of mathematicians that represent aspects of their own identities.”
— Jen Nelson, Associate Director, CEMC
Together, we will honour and commemorate each tile—the individual—that comprises the boundless mosaic of the mathematical world.
To know more about this initiative or to contribute a poster, please visit - The Mathematician Mosaic webpage.
Story by Zoey Wadsworth