Maria Tackett

Maria Tackett is an Assistant Professor of the Practice of Statistical Science at Duke University's Trinity College of Arts & Sciences. Her work focuses on innovative curriculum design for undergraduate statistics/data science courses and research on classroom environments' impact on student belonging. She holds a Ph.D. in Statistics from the University of Virginia and previously worked as a statistician at Capital One.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Statistics, University of Virginia (2018)

Research Interests:

Her research emphasizes pedagogical strategies to foster inclusive learning environments, particularly in introductory math/statistics courses. Key areas include classroom community dynamics, intersectionality in STEM education, and the application of data science to social issues like healthcare access for incarcerated populations.

Grants & Projects:

• Principal Investigator for NIH-funded initiative to diversify otolaryngology/communication sciences careers (2024-2029)
• Co-PI for ACT UP MATH program transforming undergraduate mathematics education (2022-2025)
• Lead on Bass Connections projects addressing mental health in Durham County's justice system

Teaching & Outreach:

Develops courses like STA 210L/221L (regression analysis) and leads Data+ initiatives. Engages in outreach through Bass Connections teams and the IGNITE STEM model for underserved communities.