Simons Laufer Math Institute
- Location : Berkeley, CA
- Community Served: Children
- Focus: Education
Organization background
Since 1982, the Mathematical Sciences Research Institute (MSRI),
now renamed the Simons-Laufer Math Institute (SLMATH), has been
addressing the needs of research mathematicians, of the science, technology, and
financial communities, and of the public, by communicating mathematical
research in a broad range of fundamental topics and applications; developing
mathematical talent and cultivating a sense of belonging and engagement; and
inspiring an appreciation of mathematics.
SLMATH's main activity is to organize and host semester-length programs, hosting
mathematicians who come to the Institute to engage in the research of classical
fundamental mathematics, modern applied mathematics, statistics, computer
science and other mathematical sciences. Their programs, workshops and graduate
summer schools reach an expansive audience of researchers and students.
They also run programs for children of all ages to make mathematics more
accessible; support early learning; enhance reading & math, and ultimately
encourage a love and appreciation for mathematics in daily life.
Project background
MSRI awards Mathical Book Prizes - a curated collection of high quality,
math-inspiring books, known as Mathical Books - to children in need at Title I schools,
libraries, and classroom & afterschool settings. These books span grade levels and
topics of interest, including such nonfiction subjects such as sports, Technology and
fiction subjects such as picture book biographies, coding and daydreams.
Book distribution is both regional, in the Bay area of California, and
national, throughout the United States. They also create and provide
classroom support materials so that educators get the most out of the Mathical books.
GKF contributions to SLMATH
- 2022,2023,2024: Funding for running the Mathical Book Prize program