Ruthmae Sears

Ruthmae Sears is a Professor of Mathematics Education at the University of South Florida with a joint appointment in the Department of Teaching and Learning (College of Education) and College of Arts and Sciences. She serves as Associate Director of the Coalition for Science Literacy and coordinates USF's mathematics education degree programs while leading $7.5M+ in research initiatives focused on equitable STEM education.

Her educational background includes:

• PhD in Mathematics Education, University of Missouri (2012)
• MA in Mathematics Education, Indiana University (2006)
• BEd in Secondary Mathematics Education, The College of the Bahamas (2002)
• AA in General Studies, The College of the Bahamas (2001)

Dr. Sears' research centers on equity-driven curriculum development, examining how reasoning and proof skills evolve in secondary mathematics through clinical experiences and technology integration. Her work addresses systemic barriers in K-20 STEM education, particularly during pandemic disruptions, with emphasis on creating inclusive learning environments that center marginalized voices. Current projects focus on transforming teacher preparation through improvement science and mechatronics integration.

Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals consistent focus on equity in clinical teacher training (68%), pandemic-responsive pedagogy (20%), and geometry reasoning development (12%). Her work increasingly incorporates interdisciplinary approaches, connecting mathematics education with social justice frameworks and technological innovation.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• AAAS Fellow (2021) - First Black USF recipient
• USF Outstanding Faculty Award (2022)
• Mathematically Gifted and Black Honoree (2023)
• Griffith Leadership Society Spirit of Martha Award (2023)
• FAMTE Mathematics Teacher Educator of the Year (2016)

As principal investigator for NSF-funded initiatives including the $7.5M Noyce Master Teacher Fellows program, Dr. Sears has transformed STEM curriculum across 12 Florida schools. She chairs the Network of STEM Education Centers Annual Meeting and previously served as NCTM journal associate editor, establishing partnerships with Bahamian institutions like the PACE Foundation to build schools for teen mothers.

Her leadership extends to national networks including the Accelerated Systemic Change Network and AAAS-ARISE, where she develops infrastructure for emergency remote clinical experiences while advocating for teachers of color through pipeline initiatives documented in her 2021 publication 'Reimagining the STEM Education Pipeline.'