The Old Dominion University Mathematics & Statistics Department hosted the Second Annual JRMF ODU Mathematics and Computer Science Festival on Saturday, March 2, 2019. The event was also supported by the Computer Science Department and several members of the community. The event was coordinated by organizer Katie Smith and co-organizer Blair Swoope, both faculty in the Department of Mathematics & Statistics. The event was also supported by a team of nearly 50 incredible volunteers including faculty and students. The festival attracted approximately 165 students in 4th through 8th grades from the Hampton Roads area. The theme of the festival was “What’s Your X?” encouraging students to relate to problem solving activities. To promote excitement and enthusiasm for STEM, the organizer created a diverse cast of X characters. The event was a success as students enjoyed problem and puzzle solving activities including Measuring Rice, The Last Chip, Tiling Torment, Candy Conundrum, Switching Light Bulbs, Computer Science, Tower of Rings, and ConHex. Each participant received a t-shirt with the characters, string backpack, snacks, and a character button. Organizers received overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents, chaperones, and participants with over 93% of respondents rating the festival positively. We are looking forward to coordinating the Third Annual JRMF ODU Mathematics and Computer Science Festival in Spring 2020.

Scroll down to see pictures from the event!