Marissa Chesser

Marissa Chesser is an Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Dordt University, where she teaches statistics, college algebra, calculus, and topology. Her research focuses on geometric topology and geometric group theory, particularly the intersection of low-dimensional topology with groups such as mapping class groups, handlebody groups, and non-positively curved groups.

• Ph.D. in Mathematics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2023)
• M.S. in Mathematics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2019)
• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Mathematics, Smith College (2017)
• B.S. in Mathematics and Computer Science, Azusa Pacific University (2016)

Chesser's research explores stable subgroups, pseudo-Anosov subgroups, and non-positively curved group structures. She has published in journals like Proceedings of the AMS, Groups, Geometry, and Dynamics, and Algebraic & Geometric Topology, emphasizing the visual and conceptual richness of mathematics beyond mere computation. Her work connects abstract algebraic structures with geometric intuition, highlighting the elegance of mathematical patterns.

She serves on Dordt University's Research and Scholarship Committee and integrates her Christian faith into teaching, emphasizing creativity and problem-solving as reflections of God's design. Outside academia, she enjoys cooking, games, crocheting, and outdoor activities with family and friends.