Westminster College Math Club 

Our goal is to provide role models and organize activities to support anyone interested in learning more about mathematics.

Student Contact:
President:  Phil Klahs pklahs.12@westminster-mo.eu  


Advisor Contact: Dr. Erin Martin erin.martin@westminster-mo.edu  and Dr. Angela Bowzer  angela.bowzer@westminster-mo.edu

Club Email address:  MathClub@westminster-mo.edu

Recent Events
 
Monday Math Munch Series
 
September 21, 2009
What is Computer Algebra?
Speaker:  Prof. Micah James
 
Abstract
In this talk we will discuss the origins of Computer Algebra and the problems it attempts to solve.  We will also survey the mathematical software that is available and get our feet wet using SAGE. (http://sagemath.org)
 
October 19, 2009
Paradoxes, Pathologies and Perfection:  Truth In Mathematics
Speaker:  Prof. Chris Saunders
 
Abstract
Isn’t every mathematical question true or false?  Most of our experiences in math suggest that it should be the easiest subject for a professor to grade:  either the solution is correct or it isn’t, and there’s no middle ground.  Furthermore, if a mathematical statement is true, shouldn’t we be able to prove it somehow or another?  What exactly does it mean for a statement to be ‘true’?  In this Monday Math Munch, we’ll look at some developments in the foundation of mathematics that (at the time) shattered the notion that mathematics is somehow complete and consistent.  We’ll focus on Godel’s Incompleteness Theorem, the axiom of choice and the continuum hypothesis.
 
November 16, 2009
REUs and Other Summer Internship Opportunities for Math (and Science) Majors
Speaker:  Prof. Erin Martin
 
Abstract
Interested in a research career in math or science?  Want to get a taste of what it's like to do real, innovative research in your field?  Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) programs and other summer internship opportunities are designed to help you do just that.  In this Monday Math Munch, we will discuss the myriad opportunities available, the application process, the program structure, and the benefits of participating.
 
March 15, 2010
Beauty in Mathematics: Fractals and Other Mathematical Art
Speaker:  Prof. Angela Bowzer
 
April 19, 2010
Wolfram Alpha
Speaker:  Prof. Micah James