Ron Buckmire

Marist University

Thursday, October 2, 2025

High Tea

2:30 p.m., Kemeny 300

Colloquium

Different Differences

3:15 p.m., Kemeny 007

Abstract: From Calculus we know that a derivative of a function can be approximated using a difference quotient. There are different forms of the difference quotient, such as the forward difference (most common), backward difference (less common) and centered difference (more accurate). In this talk I will discuss several different differences, specifically nonstandard finite differences (NSFD) that can be used to approximate the derivatives that appear in differential equations as a solution technique. Many NSFD schemes have been created, discovered, and promoted by Dr. Ronald E. Mickens, an African American Emeritus Professor of Physics at Clark Atlanta University, who has written more than 300 research articles and a dozen books. I'll provide examples of NSFD schemes that can be used to solve a wide variety of problems drawn from several different topics such as first-semester Calculus, elementary ordinary differential equations, and more advanced differential equations.

Friday, October 3, 2025

Public lecture

Squaring the Rainbow: The Intersection of LGBT Identity and Mathematics is NOT Empty

6:00 p.m., Kemeny 008

Abstract: In this talk I will discuss the ways that LGBT identity and mathematics intersect professionally, historically, and personally. Professionally, I will discuss how LGBT identity can and does impact participation in mathematics. Historically, I will provide examples that demonstrate the intersection of LGBT identity and mathematics is non-empty in the past, present, and future. Personally, I will describe how my career trajectory in mathematics has (and has not) been affected by my identities as a Black gay immigrant.

NOTE: this talk requires almost no prior mathematical knowledge (not that there’s anything wrong with that!)

PDF version of this announcement (suitable for posting).