Theresa Vaughan

Theresa Vaughan's projects resonate with pressing global needs in the field of mathematics, particularly in discrete mathematics, finite fields, algebra, and combinatorics. As a Professor Emerita in Mathematics at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, she dedicated her career from 1973 to 2008 to advancing mathematical knowledge and education. Her academic journey began with a Ph.D. in Mathematics from Duke University, where she laid the foundation for her future research endeavors. Throughout her illustrious career, Vaughan made significant contributions to the mathematical community through her research and publications. Her work on the enumeration of permutations and sequences with restrictions has been widely recognized, as has her research on arithmetic functions related to Fibonacci numbers. Additionally, her studies on the construction of algebraic field extensions have provided valuable insights into the complexities of algebraic structures. Vaughan's commitment to education extended beyond her research. She was deeply involved with students, serving as the chair of the Mathematics Scholarship committee at UNCG. Her dedication to nurturing the next generation of mathematicians was evident in her mentorship and guidance, which left a lasting impact on her students. Her professional affiliations were numerous and included esteemed organizations such as the International Fibonacci Association. These memberships allowed her to collaborate with fellow mathematicians and contribute to the global discourse on mathematical advancements. One of Vaughan's most notable achievements was the initiation of the "SouthEastern Regional Meeting On Numbers" (SERMON) conference. Since its inception in 1988, this annual event has provided a platform for mathematicians to share their research and foster collaboration across the southeastern United States. Her vision for SERMON has ensured its continued success and relevance in the mathematical community. Theresa Vaughan's legacy in mathematics is marked by her scholarly contributions, her dedication to education, and her ability to inspire both her peers and students. Her work continues to influence the field, and her impact is felt in the ongoing success of the initiatives she championed.