Joanna Masingila facts for kids

Joanna Osborne Masingila, born in 1960, is an American expert in teaching mathematics. She was the leader, or dean, of the School of Education at Syracuse University from 2015 to 2021. She was also a special professor there, known for her excellent teaching in mathematics.

Her Journey in Education

Early Life and Studies

Joanna Masingila grew up in Oregon and later moved to Kansas. She went to Hesston College and then graduated from Goshen College in 1982 with a degree in mathematics. She loved learning about math and how to teach it.

After her first degree, she continued her studies. She earned a master's degree in teaching mathematics from Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis in 1987. She then completed her highest degree, a Ph.D., in mathematics education from Indiana University Bloomington in 1992. For her Ph.D., she wrote about how people use math in real life, like when laying carpets.

Teaching and Leadership

Before becoming a university professor, Joanna Masingila taught mathematics to high school students for six years. This experience helped her understand how students learn best.

In 1992, she joined the faculty at Syracuse University. She was recognized for her amazing teaching skills in 2003, earning a special title for teaching excellence. In 2014, she became the temporary leader of the School of Education, and then in 2015, she was officially named the dean. This meant she was in charge of the whole school, helping to guide its programs and teachers.

Connecting with the World

Family and International Work

Joanna Masingila's husband, Adamson, was from Kenya. In 1998, she traveled to Kenyatta University in Kenya with her family. She went as a Fulbright Scholar, which is a special program that allows experts to teach and do research in other countries.

She has kept strong connections with Kenya. She works with her church on volunteer projects and helps with exchange programs. These programs allow students from Syracuse to visit schools in Kenya, and students from Kenya to come to Syracuse for more studies. This helps students learn about different cultures and ways of life.

Serving the Community

Joanna Masingila has also helped improve teaching standards in New York State. From 2016 to 2018, she was the president of a group called the New York Association of Colleges for Teacher Education. This group works to make sure that teachers are well-trained. In 2020, she was also chosen to be part of a special board that sets rules and practices for teaching in New York State.