NORFOLK, Neb. -- A monthly evening lecture series at Northeast Community College returns next week with a veteran math instructor.
Stacy Aldag, who has taught at Northeast for 16 years, will speak on the topic, “If Not Mathematics, Then What?” during Hawk Talks. It will take place on Thursday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m., in the college’s Union 73, lower level.
Aldag has been teaching math for 34 years, instructing at the high school level prior to her arrival at Northeast.
“People just don’t realize that math is everywhere. Math has evolved from what it started out to be. And now technology has certainly taken it in a totally different direction. I can see that now from when I learned statistics and now, I am teaching it.”
Many people have a phobia of math. While Aldag said she understands that, the reality is that math is “everywhere” and a necessary part of everyday life.
Aldag’s presentation will include the history of math, covering a timeline that touches on women in mathematics.
“I want to make this an interactive thing,” Aldag said. “So, in addition to giving some history and application, I want the audience to participate in some activities. I want them to just try some stuff.”
So, does 2 + 2 always equal 4?
“Of course,” she said, with a laugh. “And it can be proven in so many ways.”
Paul Muncy, history/geography instructor, originated Hawk Talks in 2021 after he reached out to his colleagues to see if they would have an interest in developing a series of public lectures for both students and the public.
Muncy invites people who desire intellectual stimulation in their lives to attend and make a night of it, not just the Northeast community. The lectures are free.
Beyond the Numbers
Stacy Aldag, who has taught math for 16 years at Northeast Community College, will be featured at the next Hawk Talks on Thursday, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m. in Union 73. (Northeast Community College)
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