University names Hardin Professor for 2011

Dr. Dawn Slavens, professor and interim chair of the Department of Mathematics, was named Hardin Professor for 2011 during the MSU commencement ceremony held May 14.  Hardin Professor is the highest honor bestowed upon a faculty member at the university each year. 

The Hardin Foundation for Wichita County established the annual award in 1962 for a member of the MSU faculty whose teaching and research of the preceding 12 months has brought distinction to the faculty member and the institution.  The award carries with it a stipend of $3,500. 

Slavens received her Bachelor of Science in Education from Emporia State University, her Master of Science in Mathematics from Stephen F. Austin State University, and her doctorate in mathematics from the University of North Texas. 

Slavens was hired as an assistant professor in 1999, and was promoted to associate professor in 2004 and to professor and interim chair in 2010-11 academic year. 

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Slavens has authored a number of publications and made presentations at conferences held throughout the United States. She has also served on many university committees including Rank and Tenure Committee, Distance Education Committee, and Faculty Senate. 

Slavens serves on the board for the Conference for the Advancement of Mathematics Teaching and is a member of the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. In 2008 she was recipient of the Texas Section of MAA's Distinguished College or University Teaching of Mathematics Award.

Slavens currently serves as a member of the leadership team for the annual Math, Science and U conference for middle school girls.