BHSU’S CAMSE RECEIVES “FRIEND OF MATHEMATICS” AWARD FROM SOUTH DAKOTA TEACHERS OF MATHEMATICS

Black Hills State University’s Center for the Advancement of Math and Science Education (CAMSE) was honored with the “Friend of Mathematics” Award at the South Dakota STEM Education Conference held February 7 in Huron. This honor, presented by the South Dakota Council of Teachers of Mathematics (SDCTM), recognizes individuals and organizations that demonstrate a commitment to advancing mathematics education in South Dakota. 

“Each year the South Dakota Council of Teachers of Mathematics gives out a Friend of Mathematics Award to recognize an individual or organization for their commitment to the discipline in the state. When the name for this year’s recipient was presented to the board, it was an easy decision for all of us due to all the great work this organization and those involved have done for our great state in the name of mathematics education,” said Dan Van Peursem, president of the South Dakota Teachers of Mathematics, at the award ceremony. 

Accepting the award on behalf of CAMSE were Kim Webber, Stephanie Higdon, Hanna Caffee, and Deann Kertzman. The SDCTM has been presenting this award since 1986, with a focus on honoring those who have made significant contributions to the field of mathematics. 

Established in 1997 by the South Dakota Board of Regents, CAMSE has been a cornerstone in supporting K-12 teachers and students, undergraduate STEM majors, and pre-service teachers. Over the past 25 years, CAMSE has sought to increase understanding and appreciation of STEM across South Dakota through teacher workshops, educational research, and community partnerships. 

Ben Sayler, director of CAMSE, expressed gratitude for the recognition. “CAMSE is delighted to have been recognized by SDCTM as a Friend of Mathematics. CAMSE believes in the power of teachers, and we focus the vast majority of our efforts on supporting teachers across South Dakota. We greatly appreciate SDCTM's shining a light on our work. What an honor!”  

The award ceremony highlighted CAMSE's extensive involvement in STEM education, including partnerships with South Dakota EPSCoR, securing federal funding for the Sanford Underground Research Facility, and leading numerous grants from the National Science Foundation totaling over $17.5 million. 

For more information about CAMSE and its initiatives, please visit BHSU.edu/Centers/Advancement-of-Math-Science-Education.