Corvallis, OR 

Speaker: Mariana Smit Vega Garcia

Title: Hiking to differential equations

Abstract: In this talk, I’ll share the story of my research journey, exploring some fascinating mathematical challenges along the way, particularly focusing on free boundary problems. These are a type of partial differential equations that come with unique and intriguing challenges. For example, the Stefan problem models the melting of ice. I’ll also take you through another example, where the shape of a mountain comes into play. Join me as we explore these problems and uncover why they’re both fascinating and difficult to solve.

Speaker: Keri Ann Sather-Wagstaff

Title: How Much Is Enough?

Abstract: Imagine that you are a calculus TA, and you have recently become concerned about your students using secure messaging apps. Some are using messaging apps with excellent encryption, and others are not. Some pairs of students are contacts and others are not. (If one student is a contact with another, then they are mutual contacts.) The class is secure provided that, within each contact pair of students, at least one of them is using the encrypted app. What is the smallest number of students who need to use the encrypted app in order for the class to be secure? And is there an algorithm to determine which students need to use the encrypted app in order for the class to be secure?

It turns out that these questions are equivalent to some classical problems in graph theory. In this talk, we’ll discuss approaches to these and other similar questions. I’ll also discuss my professional path as a first generation college student and neurodivergent trans woman from college dropout to Full Professor in math at a southern R1 university to NSF Program Director in broadening participation to my current role as Associate Provost at a northern Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) with a public-good mission that centers DEI

Speaker: Lucas Anderson

Institution: Oregon State University

Title: Categorical Limits in Set Theory

Abstract: This talk introduces the notion of a category, motivated primarily by concrete categories. From there, categorical products, terminal objects, and equalizers are defined and discussed, along with examples in the category of sets and functions to provide a more familiar intuitive ground.

Speaker: Joshua Barsky

Institution: University of California Riverside

Title: The Art of Proof Without Disclosure

Abstract: How can you prove something you know without revealing what you know? In this talk we'll briefly explore Zero Knowledge Proofs and what makes them fascinating. We'll go over some basic key ideas and results that follow. No prior background knowledge is required, just an interest in these basic concepts is all you need!

Speaker: Olivia Del Guercio

Institution: Rice University

Title: What's an Algebraic Geometry Code?

Abstract: Sending binary strings, or messages, across space and time is a fraught endeavor. Our messages are unfortunately often corrupted before they are received. We can ensure that the receiver can understand our message (despite possible errors or bit flips) by adding redundancy. The set of all of these new redundant messages is called a code. Adding redundancy is often at odds with the receiver’s ability to correct possible errors. The fundamental problem of coding theory asks: How does one minimize redundancy while maximizing error-correcting robustness? In the late 1990s so called algebraic geometry codes were developed as the first families of codes that performed better than random. In this talk we give a friendly introduction to this fascinating family of codes.

Speaker: Jolene Marie Nelson

Institution: Oregon State University

Title: Coral, Crochet, and Hyperbolic Geometry

Abstract: This presentation explores the unexpected intersection of mathematics, marine biology, and women’s handicrafts through the lens of hyperbolic geometry and its representational applications. Beginning with a brief historical overview of Euclidean and non-Euclidean geometry, the discussion relies on the revolutionary work of 19th-century mathematicians Nikolai Lobachevsky and János Bolyai, who independently developed hyperbolic geometry by challenging Euclid’s parallel postulate. Then we highlight the modern pedagogical innovation of Dr. Daina Taimina, a Latvian mathematician who in 1997 used crochet to create tangible models of hyperbolic planes—structures previously thought to be unrepresentable in our physical space. Taimina’s models not only enhanced the teaching of complex geometric concepts but also inspired a global art and science collaboration initiated by Margaret and Christine Wertheim. Their Crochet Coral Reef Project raises awareness of environmental issues like coral reef degradation while promoting public engagement with mathematics through craft. This presentation emphasizes how these crocheted models exemplify the properties of hyperbolic geometry, such as increased surface area due to negative Gaussian curvature—a trait shared with naturally occurring organisms like corals, sea slugs, and leafy greens. Within the presentation we reflect on the broader implications of cross-disciplinary thinking, inclusive pedagogy, and the value of drawing inspiration from nature to inform both scientific understanding and creative expression. Ultimately, this work underscores the power of integrating art, science, and education to make abstract concepts more accessible and to inspire action on global environmental challenges.

Speaker: Sarah Kerrigan + Tom Shifley

Institution: George Fox University

Title: Welcome to Mayan Kindergarten: An introduction to different counting systems

Abstract: Have you ever thought about where numbers come from and why we count the way we do? In this talk we will explore two different historical counting systems, Incan and Mayan, through short hands-on activities. The activities will be followed by a short discussion teaching implications for these activities and importance of highlighting non-traditional mathematics.

Speaker: Praveeni Mathangadeera

Institution: Oregon State University

Title: Sensitivity analysis of a permafrost model responding to surface temperature variations in variable topography.

Abstract: We consider a computational model for energy equation in permafrost soils and its response to surface temperature model [Ling, Zhang' 2003]. Our focus is on the dependence of model results on several model parameters including the thermal conductivity, volumetric heat capacity, and the dependence of surface boundary conditions on the albedo which varies in various regions. Next, we evaluate the response of the model to these parameters. To this end, we set up the sensitivity equation as well as Sobol indices sensitivity framework. Our results allow to assess the robustness of our computational model as well as to understand the uncertainty associated with the parameters and the model itself. Our simulations and analyses help to determine the response of the soils in the Arctic to the changing climate and to assess the reliability of the model.

Speaker: Emily Payne

Institution: University of Texas Rio Grande

Title: TBD

Speaker: Ricardo Reyes Grimaldo

Institution: Lane Community College

Title: Mechanisms that influence disease persistence of fast-spreading diseases in small populations.

Abstract: Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a fast-spreading disease that does not affect the mortality of African buffalo (Syncerus cafer), and from which they can recover. Traditional epidemiological knowledge establishes that a pathogen with these characteristics should ``die off'' from small populations, nevertheless, African buffalo constantly present this highly infectious pathogen. The question remains: why is this the case? In this talk, we will present some of the mechanisms that facilitate the persistence of FMD in wild populations of African buffalo.

Speaker: Paul Zupan

Institution: University of Oregon

Title: Isomorphisms: The Bigger Picture of Math

Abstract: Isomorphisms allow us to speak imprecisely without loss of precision. Isomorphism can be defined for a variety of mathematical objects, such as sets, groups, and vector spaces. Certain constructions can be defined implicitly once we allow for their characterization up to isomorphism.

One of the main goals of Math For All is to create a welcoming environment for all participants. We wish for every participant to feel welcome, included, and safe at our conference.  For that reason, we ask you to be mindful of your words and actions when communicating with others. We all have a bias and make mistakes. With an open mind and a willingness to apologize, we can create a safe space for everybody. 

Harassment or discrimination of any kind based on race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, creed, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression will not be permitted.

Hate speech is not permitted at the conference. We want to clarify that hate speech does not include the criticism of institutions or governments, but rather that of individuals or groups of individuals, and that we welcome uncomfortable conversations that stimulate a growth mind set.   

If there is a situation during the conference that makes you feel unwelcome, we ask you to please talk to one of the organizers so we can help you as best as we can.