Thomas Fitzkee

Dr. Thomas Fitzkee is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Mathematics at Francis Marion University in Florence, South Carolina. He holds a Ph.D. in Mathematics from George Washington University and has been an active educator and researcher in dynamical systems and mathematics education.

His research focuses on Dynamical Systems, particularly interval exchange transformations, pseudo-Anosov diffeomorphisms, symbolic dynamics, and self-similar tilings. He investigates trajectories across Markov partitions and studies beta-transformations related to expansion coefficients. His work bridges pure mathematics with applications in modeling and education.

Dr. Fitzkee has made significant contributions to national mathematics education initiatives. Since 2007, he has served as an AP Calculus Reader, scoring student exams, and has hosted AP Calculus Summer Teacher Institutes. He has also judged the High School and Collegiate Mathematical Competition in Modeling (HiMCM/MCM) sponsored by COMAP since 2002, promoting problem-solving and applied mathematics among students.

He teaches undergraduate mathematics courses such as Trigonometry and maintains extensive office hours, emphasizing student accessibility. His dedication to teaching and service underscores his role as a key academic leader in the Department of Mathematics.

Professional Service and Recognition:

• AP Calculus Reader since 2007
• Host, AP Calculus Summer Teacher Institute (6 years)
• Judge, COMAP High School Mathematical Competition in Modeling (HiMCM), since 2002
• Judge, COMAP Mathematical Competition in Modeling (MCM), since 2002

Advising and Grants: While no formal advisees or grants are listed in the provided text, Dr. Fitzkee's mentorship is evident through his involvement in teacher training and student competitions. His leadership as Department Chair reflects administrative and academic guidance within the university.

Labs and Teams: Though no formal lab is mentioned, Dr. Fitzkee collaborates with educational organizations like the College Board and COMAP, contributing to national efforts in mathematics pedagogy and modeling competitions.