Mission
Mathematics illuminates the patterns that abound in our world. The National Museum of Mathematics strives to enhance public understanding and perception of mathematics. Its dynamic exhibits and programs stimulate inquiry, spark curiosity, and reveal the wonders of mathematics. The Museum's activities lead a broad and diverse audience to understand the evolving, creative, human, and aesthetic nature of mathematics.
Brief History
The National Museum of Mathematics began in response to the closing of a small museum of mathematics on Long Island, the Goudreau Museum. A group of interested parties (the "Working Group") met in August 2008 to explore the creation of a new museum of mathematics one that would go well beyond the Goudreau in both its scope and methodology. The group quickly discovered that there was no museum of mathematics in the United States, and yet there was incredible demand for hands-on math programming. Accomplishments to date include: opening Manhattan's only hands-on science center, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors; creating the popular Math Midway exhibition, which delighted over 750,000 visitors at museums throughout the United States; leading math tours in various U.S. cities; running dozens of Math Encounters and Family Fridays presentations; delivering many other programs for students, teachers, and the public to increase appreciation of mathematics; and creating the largest public outdoor demonstration of the Pythagorean Theorem ever.
Organization
The Museum is governed by a Board of Trustees, receives intellectual guidance from an Advisory Council, and operates with the assistance of the Working Group. Glen Whitney serves as President of the Board of Trustees of the Museum, and Cindy Lawrence as its Executive Director.
