Mary Schaps facts for kids

Mary Elizabeth Schaps (also known as Malka Elisheva Schaps) was born on August 6, 1948. She is a talented mathematician from Israel and the United States. She became a Professor of Mathematics at Bar Ilan University. She also served as the Dean of the Faculty of Exact Sciences there. Mary Schaps earned her Ph.D. from Harvard University. She has written many papers on advanced math topics. Besides her work in math, she is also a writer. She has written several novels using the pen name Rachel Pomerantz.

Early Life and Education

Mary Elizabeth Kramer was born in Cleveland, Ohio, USA. She grew up there before starting her college studies.

College and University Studies

From 1965 to 1969, Mary attended Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania. She studied mathematics, philosophy, and history. She graduated with top honors in 1969. After that, she went to Harvard University for her graduate studies in mathematics. She earned her Master of Arts (MA) degree in 1971. She then completed her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in 1972. Her PhD is the highest degree you can get in a field of study.

Family and Faith Journey

Mary grew up in Christian faiths. While in college, she became interested in Judaism. She formally converted to Conservative Judaism. In 1968, she married David Schaps. He was also studying for his PhD at Harvard. They both became more interested in Orthodox Judaism. By the time they finished their doctorates, they considered themselves part of the Haredi Jewish community. In 1972, Mary and David moved to Israel. This move is called aliyah.

They had two children together. This was a small family for Haredi standards. So, they also raised four more foster children. Today, they live in Bnei Brak, a Haredi city near Tel Aviv, Israel.

Professional Career

Mary Schaps gained teaching experience at Harvard University. She was a teaching assistant from 1971 to 1972. She also lectured at the Harvard Summer School in 1975.

Moving to Israel and Teaching

In 1972, after moving to Israel, she became a lecturer in mathematics at Tel Aviv University. Her second year in Israel was challenging. The Yom Kippur War happened. The new language, culture, and the war were a big change for her and her family.

Rise at Bar-Ilan University

In 1977, she moved to Bar-Ilan University. She started as a senior lecturer. She was promoted to associate professor in 1991. In 2006, she became a full professor. She was the only Haredi woman who was a professor in Israel. In October 2013, she was appointed Dean of Exact Sciences at Bar-Ilan University. This made her the highest-ranking Haredi woman in Israeli universities. She stepped down as dean in 2015. She retired in 2016 and was made Professor Emeritus. This title is given to professors who have retired but are still highly respected.