MƒA Thursday Think: Contributions of Islam to Mathematics

Join us for a special Ramadan رمضان edition of MƒA’s Thursday Think series featuring the mathematical contributions of scholars from the Islamic world, followed by an iftaar الإفطار (breaking of the fast) and dinner. In this talk, Dr. Sara Rezvi will highlight key intellectual traditions and contributions of Muslim mathematicians through the lenses of algebra الجبر (al-jabr), geometry, and astronomy. From cubic equations and conic sections to intersection curves and celestial arcs, she will explore the mathematical significance of architectural geometry, Islamic art, and scientific instrumentation. Throughout, Dr. Rezvi will invite teachers to consider how engaging with this content and with CRSE tools can support more inclusive classrooms and affirm students’ mathematical identities, particularly for Muslim students.

Dr. Sara Rezvi (she/they) is an Assistant Professor of Education at Dominican University in suburban Chicago, where she teaches and researches mathematics education. Before joining Dominican, Dr. Rezvi worked as a middle and high school mathematics teacher in New York City, Mexico, and Chicago, and served as the Program Director for the Math Circles of Chicago. She is a first-generation Pakistani American immigrant, born in Karachi and raised in Chicago. Her scholarship explores mathematical identity formation, systemic inequities in mathematics education, and how teachers engage in acts of resistance and reimagination in mathematics classrooms. Her work has been published in the “Journal of Urban Mathematics Education” and the “Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy,” as well as in edited volumes focused on social justice and equity in STEM education. She is the recipient of the Mary Bialas Prize for her commitment to issues impacting women and children. In addition to her scholarly work, Dr. Rezvi is a published poet. Her poetry appears in World Making in Nepantla: Feminists of Color Navigating Life and Work in the Pandemic and has been featured in “South Side Weekly,” “Scout & Birdie,” and other literary ‘zines.

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EVENT SCHEDULE

• 4:30 - Doors Open
• 4:30-5:15 - Coffee, Tea, Water, Soda available
• 5:30 - Welcome and Introductions
• 5:40-6:45 - Talk and Q&A
• 6:59 - Iftaar and Dinner (prayer space will be available)
• 7:45 - Goodbye and See You Next Time!

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