Suzanne Weekes

"My interest began in elementary school with the same math that everyone else my age in Trinidad was doing. My teachers and family encouraged me to do well and pursue math and the sciences. I came to the United States for university and earned a B.S. in mathematics and a minor in computer science from Indiana University in Bloomington, and then a Ph.D. in mathematics and scientific computing from the University of Michigan. The latter was an interdisciplinary degree. I also took graduate classes in aerospace engineering, industrial engineering, and computer science, so it wasn’t your traditional math degree."

"I’ve always liked to see connections to applications and understand how the mathematics is being used. As an undergraduate and graduate student, I spent summers working at companies where I utilized both my mathematics and computer training, which also fed my interests. I enjoy seeing how foundational research comes to market in terms of usability."

"I’ve been engaged with SIAM as a volunteer over the years and have worked with some members of the SIAM staff before. The executive director position is a wonderful new challenge and, going by history, the opportunity does not come up often at all. My interests and experience line up well with what is needed for this role."

"Conferences become more fun once you get to know people, so I’m glad that SIAM hosts “Student Days” at our meetings. We need to continue making the SIAM conference environment very welcoming and inclusive. It can certainly be overwhelming or lonely to go to a strange city and strange hotel and not know anyone. But as you come more often, you begin seeing friends and look forward to meetings."

"Conferences are valuable for researchers at all levels, but especially for early-career mathematicians who are looking to establish themselves in the community. They provide spaces where attendees can get acquainted, share ideas, network with one another, and expand their understanding of the fields."