Linda B. Hayden facts for kids
Linda Bailey Hayden (born February 4, 1949) is an American mathematician. She is known for her work in teaching mathematics and using math to understand the Earth, like in geoscience. Dr. Hayden is also famous for helping and guiding students from minority groups and women who want to study science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). She is a professor and associate dean of mathematics and computer science at Elizabeth City State University.
Early Life and Education
Linda Bailey Hayden grew up in Portsmouth, Virginia. From a young age, she loved mathematics. However, because of segregation at the time, she faced challenges. She could only read math books from the "Colored Community Library" in Portsmouth. To get other books, she had to specially ask for them to be moved from the main town library.
She went to public schools in Portsmouth, including I. C. Norcom High School. Her talent in math competitions helped her win a scholarship to Virginia State University. This university is a historically black university, which means it was founded to educate African American students.
Dr. Hayden earned her first degree in 1970 from Virginia State. She studied both mathematics and physics. Later, she continued her studies and received a master's degree in math education from the University of Cincinnati in 1972. She also earned a second master's degree in computer science from Old Dominion University in 1983.
She then went back to graduate school to study math education even further. In 1988, she completed her Ph.D. at American University. Her research focused on how special programs could help talented minority students finish high school, go to college, and choose careers that use a lot of math and science.
Career Highlights
After getting her first master's degree in 1972, Dr. Hayden began her career as a mathematics professor. She started teaching at Kentucky State University. In 1976, she moved to Norfolk State University. Then, in 1980, she joined Elizabeth City State University.
At Elizabeth City State University, Dr. Hayden started something very important: the Center of Excellence in Remote Sensing Education and Research. This center helps students learn about Earth science by using technology to study our planet from a distance. Her main goal for the center was to encourage more minority students to get involved in environmental science.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Linda Bailey Hayden has received many honors for her important work. In 2003, she won the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring. This is a very special award given by the President of the United States to people who are excellent at guiding and inspiring young people in science and math.
That same year, US Black Engineer magazine recognized her with their Emerald Honors for Educational Leadership. This award celebrated her leadership in education.
An ice shelf in Antarctica was even named after her institution, Elizabeth City State University, because of her contributions. In 2017, she was also honored by "Mathematically Gifted & Black" during Black History Month, celebrating her achievements as a Black mathematician.
