Ross J. Cocks, a TA in our department, has received the 2025-2026 Susan Deese-Roberts Outstanding TA Award for his contributions supporting our students in Survey of Math (Math 1130).1
The official communication from Dr. Stephanie Phong and the Teaching Enhancement Committee & The Center for Teaching and Learning said
"I am delighted to inform you that you have been selected as a 2025–2026 Susan Deese-Roberts Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award recipient. Your exceptional instructional practices, innovative course design, and clear commitment to student success deeply impressed the entire committee. The strength, intentionality, and creativity evident in your teaching portfolio set a remarkable standard for excellence at the University of New Mexico.
The award of $1,000 (minus applicable withholdings) recognizes your exemplary contributions as an instructor and leader in the Department of Mathematics & Statistics. Students and colleagues provided strong evidence that your teaching has made a substantial positive impact on learning and confidence in a historically high-anxiety subject area.
We invite you to be honored at the in-person award ceremony on Wednesday, April 8th, from 4–6 PM. You are encouraged to bring family, friends, and students to join in celebrating your accomplishments.
On behalf of the selection committee, congratulations again on this well-deserved recognition."
Ross is a Mathematical Artist and a proud husband and father, in addition to a full time MS student. He has infused his love for mathematical art into his Survey of Math teaching, in his own words
"Since instructors can choose their mathematical topic for Unit 4, I choose Mathematical Art. Due to the novelty of the choice, I had to design the curriculum and refine it over subsequent semesters. The two hallmarks of the Mathematical Art Unit were the Mathematical Art Presentation and the visit to the UNM Art Museum."
Congratulations Ross!!! You make us all very proud!
1Taught at the University of New Mexico under the course code Math 1130. The introductory undergraduate mathematics course is designed for non-STEM majors, emphasizing conceptual understanding via real-world applications, theories, and methods.
