Michelle Ghrist

Michelle Ghrist is an Associate Professor of Mathematics at Gonzaga University in the College of Arts and Sciences. She also serves as the Director of the Center for Undergraduate Research and Creative Inquiry (CURCI), supporting student research across disciplines. Her academic background includes a Ph.D. and M.S. in Applied Mathematics from the University of Colorado Boulder and dual B.S. degrees in Physics and Mathematics from the University of Toledo.

Her research spans several areas:

• Numerical Analysis of Differential Equations: Focused on finite difference and multistep methods, stability, and accuracy.
• Mathematical Modeling: Applications in mathematical biology, fluid flow, wave equations, and solitons.
• Humanistic Mathematics: Bridging mathematics with the humanities.
• Scholarship of Teaching and Learning: Innovations in assessment, curriculum, and technology integration.

Her recent publications reflect a dual focus on computational mathematics and pedagogical innovation. From 2019 to 2024, her work includes exploring the use of geometric series in tax policy, environmental applications of differential equations, and transformative teaching practices such as grading without points and oral exams. The earlier works (1999–2015) emphasize high-order numerical methods for wave equations and stability analysis, often in collaboration with prominent researchers like Bengt Fornberg.

She has advised numerous undergraduate research projects through courses like MATH 490, MATH 496, and MATH 498. She has taught extensively at Gonzaga, the U.S. Air Force Academy, Belmont University, and the University of Colorado.

Scientific Contributions:

• Published in journals such as SIAM Journal on Numerical Analysis, PRIMUS, Mathematics Magazine, and Journal of Fluid Mechanics.
• Developed educational tools like the ApproxTool applet.
• Advocated for alternative assessments and writing in mathematics.

She maintains an active research and teaching profile, with a strong commitment to undergraduate engagement and interdisciplinary scholarship.