Victor J. Donnay

Victor J. Donnay is a Professor of Mathematics at Bryn Mawr College, holding the William R. Kenan Jr. Chair. He specializes in chaotic dynamical systems and has contributed significantly to math education, particularly in integrating sustainability into curricula. His roles include Director of Environmental Studies (2013–present) and Chair of the Sustainability Leadership Group (2012–2014). Donnay earned his Ph.D. from NYU’s Courant Institute in 1986 under Peter Sarnak. His research spans geodesic flows, billiards dynamics, and sustainability-linked education.

Education: B.S. Dartmouth College (1981), M.S. and Ph.D. from NYU Courant Institute (1986). He has held visiting positions at Stanford, ETH Zurich, and Berkeley.

Research interests focus on chaotic systems, with notable contributions to ergodic theory and geodesic flows. He has pioneered math education initiatives, including SENCER Model Courses and sustainability-focused curricula like Math 295. Donnay’s outreach includes public lectures, TED-Ed videos, and collaborative projects such as the World’s Largest Sierpinski Triangle exhibit.

His awards include the Friedrichs Prize (1987), SENCER Model Course designation (2008), and the William R. Kenan Jr. Chair (2013). Donnay has led NSF-funded projects, including the $12.5M Math Science Partnership of Greater Philadelphia and Noyce Teacher Scholarship Programs.

Teaching spans courses in real analysis, differential equations, and sustainability modeling. He advises student research on civic engagement and environmental projects, fostering partnerships with local organizations. Donnay’s work bridges academia and public engagement, emphasizing STEM education equity and sustainability solutions.