News Release

Contact At AMS: Tim Goggins (401) 455-4110, FAX (401) 331-3842, tjg@ams.org

Providence, RI -- Felix E. Browder, University Professor of Mathematics at Rutgers University assumes the Presidency of the American Mathematical Society today through January 2001. A member of the National Academy of Sciences, Browder is well known for his critical work in the development of nonlinear functional analysis. He is also known for his work in applying both linear and nonlinear functional analysis to partial differential equations. Browder has been strongly supportive of efforts to improve undergraduate and graduate education in the mathematical sciences.

Saying that "mathematical research flourishes", Browder cautions, "The institutions that support mathematical research are under great stress. The AMS is the focal organization of the American mathematics community. It is charged with the responsibility for the survival of our field. Employment of young mathematicians, mathematical education at all levels, research funding, recruitment of mathematical talent, public appreciation of mathematics, and underrepresentation of women and minorities in the profession are among the pressing problems the AMS must deal with." He also points to the need to involve a larger sector of the mathematics community in efforts to ensure a healthy future for mathematics.