Biography:
Frances Ann Novak Rosamond, born in 1943, is an Australian computer scientist who has made significant contributions to the field of computer education and parameterized complexity. Known for her expertise in these areas, she has dedicated her career to advancing computational knowledge and promoting the inclusion of women in computer science.
Rosamond completed her PhD at Cornell University in 1981 under the supervision of David Henderson. Her doctoral research focused on developing the Cornell Mathematics Support Center, which remains an active resource to this day. During her time at Cornell, Rosamond also created a program to assist adult women in overcoming mathematics anxiety and progressing along the Scheme of Intellectual and Ethical Development established by William G. Perry.
Beyond her work in computational education, Rosamond has delved into the realm of computer games. She has developed methodologies for generating game puzzles using NP-completeness. These contributions have shed light on the complexity of game design and furthered the understanding of computational challenges in the gaming industry.
After her time at Cornell, Rosamond joined the faculty at the University of Newcastle in Australia. Here, she established a new program of computer games and initiated a guest-visitor seminar series. Additionally, since 1998, Rosamond and her husband, Michael Fellows, have provided workshops on the mathematical foundations of computer science to children and adults in various countries.
Throughout her career, Rosamond has prioritized the advancement of women in mathematics and computer science. As a professor of mathematics at National University in San Diego from 1986 to 2000, she orchestrated Sonia Kovalevskia Mathematics Days, a program specifically designed for girls and their teachers. Furthermore, she was an advocate for the San Diego Science Alliance and received a University of Newcastle HEEP Equity Award for her efforts in increasing the representation of women in computer science.
Rosamond’s dedication to gender equality extends beyond the classroom. She has served on various committees, including the Mathematics Association of America Committee on Mathematics and the Environment, Committee on Under-represented Minorities, and Committee on the Teaching of Undergraduate Mathematics. Additionally, she chaired the Task Force on Data Collection and Policy Issues and represented the JOINT-AMS-AWM-ASA-IMS-MAA-NCTM-SIAM Committee on Women in the Mathematical Sciences.
Contributing to the visibility and recognition of discrimination events, Rosamond, along with Sue Geller and Patricia Kenschaft, developed and performed in the MAA Skit Program. This humorous presentation aimed to shine a light on recent acts of discrimination while disguised as fictional characters.
Rosamond’s impact extends globally as she helped secure the Mathematical Association of America as an official non-governmental organization at The United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women and facilitated workshops at the conference. She has participated in numerous mathematics education associations, including the Association for Women in Mathematics. Her commitment to international collaborations led to her invitation as a delegate on the first Women and Mathematics delegation to the People’s Republic of China in 1991.
With her involvement in the board of directors of the Women in Mathematics Education Association and her contributions to the Nominations and Elections committee, Rosamond has continually worked to empower women in the field of mathematics.
Frances A. Rosamond has made remarkable contributions to computer education, parameterized complexity, and the advancement of women in mathematics and computer science. Her dedication and unwavering commitment to these fields have left a lasting impact on the academic and social landscape.
Awards:
– University of Newcastle HEEP Equity Award
– Recognition for investigations into increasing the number of women in computer science.