Yueh-Gin Gung and Dr. Charles Y. Hu Award for 2011 to Joseph A. Gallian for Distinguished Service to Mathematics

The two themes that run through Joseph A. Gallian’s service to mathematics are (a) encouraging young mathematicians and helping them to develop successful careers and (b) communicating mathematics to the widest possible audience. He was one of the early proponents of undergraduates conducting mathematical research, and his REU at Duluth, which began in 1977, is widely regarded as the premier REU. The quality of the work at Joe’s REU is evidenced by the 160 papers by participants that grew out of their REU work. These papers have appeared in such journals as Crelle’s Journal, Journal of Algebra, Journal of Combinatorial Theory, Discrete Mathematics, Applied Discrete Mathematics, Annals of Discrete Mathematics, and Journal of Graph Theory. The REU, along with Joe’s continuing contact with its participants, makes an important contribution to developing the next generations of mathematicians. Participants have included some prominent mathematicians, whose careers this REU helped to shape. Joe is also an inspiration to a generation of mathematicians who involve students in high-quality undergraduate research in mathematics. Not only is Joe successful with his own REU, but he is generous with his time and advice to help others to set up REUs. In 2002, Joe was recognized by the Council on Undergraduate Research with their Fellow Award, given to members who have demonstrated sustained excellence in research with undergraduates.