Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Jennifer A. Wolfe
Dr. Jennifer A. Wolfe, Associate Professor in the School of Mathematical Sciences.
The College of Science is celebrating Asian Pacific Islander Desi American (APIDA) Heritage Month with Dr. Jennifer A. Wolfe, an Associate Professor in the School of Mathematical Sciences.
The College of Science spoke with Dr. Wolfe, the daughter of a Thai immigrant and first-generation college student, to discuss her journey to the the University of Arizona, who helped guide her on her journey, and her role as navigator for family trips.
Dr. Jennifer A. Wolfe
Associate Professor
Mathematics
College of Science: Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your journey to the University of Arizona.
Wolfe: At the age of 17, my mother bravely embarked on a journey from Thailand to the United States, facing the unknown with determination. After completing high school, she met a hardworking coal miner from southern Illinois, and their love quickly led to marriage. I was born a few years later. I confidently embrace my identity as the daughter of a Thai immigrant, the oldest sibling of three, and a first-generation college graduate.
When I was in middle school, our family faced tough times as my father was laid off from the mines and eventually lost both of his legs due to complications from type 1 diabetes. In response, my mother took on two jobs, demonstrating perseverance and resilience in order to support us.
Through these challenges, I learned the value of hard work and commitment in overcoming life's obstacles. College became my goal—a means to acquire an education that would empower me to make a difference for my family.
Driven by determination, I became the first in my family to attend college, earning both a bachelor's and master's degree in mathematics from the University of Kentucky. My academic journey continued, as I pursued and obtained a PhD in mathematics education, expanding my expertise and fulfilling my aspirations.
COS: When looking back on your childhood and spending time with family, are there any favorite traditions or memories that stick out to you?
Wolfe: Many cherished moments and traditions in my life revolve around family, food, and travel. Despite facing financial hardships, my parents made every effort to save money for our annual family vacations. I took on the role of co-navigator during these trips, embracing my love for math as I unfolded large road maps to calculate our travel time and estimate fuel costs.
My siblings and I would diligently read billboard signs as we passed from one city to another, on the lookout for the most affordable gas and hotel options. Whenever we stopped at rest areas, our family would come together over delicious Thai dishes--papaya salad and coconut sticky rice and mango being my all-time favorites.
These experiences not only brought our family closer but also fostered my deep appreciation for the value of hard work and resourcefulness.
COS: Who are some of the people who have made the greatest impact on your life?
Wolfe: Throughout my life, so many people have played an instrumental role in shaping me into the person I am today. My parents consistently supported my pursuit of education, providing a solid foundation for my growth. =
In college, my undergraduate advisor and later co-thesis advisor, Dr. Carl Lee, imparted invaluable lessons on grace, patience, and gratitude in learning mathematics alongside others. He embodied the qualities of an exceptional leader, educator, and mentor, inspiring me to do the same as I continued on my scholarly journey.
Over the course of my career, I am eternally grateful for the countless K-12 public school teachers, I have had the privilege and honor to work alongside and to learn from. Their insights and dedication to the teaching profession have influenced my work as a mathematics teacher educator and scholar. I am in awe of their brilliance as they nurture the next generation of critical thinkers, fierce advocates, and change-makers.
COS: What was it that drew you to your area of research and expertise?
Wolfe: Growing up in a predominantly white rural town in Kentucky, I lacked role models who looked like me, leaving me unsure of my own potential. Confronted with feelings of otherness, racism, and marginalization, my self-confidence waned, and I often felt unheard and distrustful of others. As a child, I sought comfort in the world of mathematics, delighting in exploring patterns and solving puzzles. Mathematics offered an escape where I didn't have to justify my existence or humanity to others.
Regrettably, the joy I found in mathematics did not translate to the classroom setting. Learning became a rigid and narrow process, focused on procedural methods with little room for collaboration or exploration. Contrary to the model minority myth, my K-12 teachers never perceived me as mathematically capable. These experiences have significantly influenced my path towards becoming a mathematics teacher educator and researcher.
As a mathematics education scholar, I actively engage with a community of like-minded individuals, working collaboratively to challenge dominant narratives surrounding who can excel in mathematics and what it means to engage in mathematical pursuits.
COS: What is your favorite part of being a scientist?
Wolfe: As a mathematics teacher education researcher, I hold the unique privilege of having the time, space, and resources to think about building bridges between theoretical teaching methods and actionable classroom practices. I have the opportunity to collaborate with classroom teachers and undergraduate students who are eager to enhance their mathematics teaching practices. It's a joy to learn from and alongside aspiring secondary mathematics teachers who are passionate about their work.
The relational aspect of being a mathematics teacher educator is my heart work. The process of co-creating identity-affirming spaces that empower a community of learners, including myself, is my jam. This collaborative approach fosters an environment that enables personal and professional growth for everyone involved. In this fulfilling journey, I am committed to continually evolving as an educator and nurturing a culture of inclusive excellence, ultimately inspiring positive change in the world of mathematics education.