Dan McQuillan serves as Chair of the Department of Mathematics and holds the Charles A. Dana Professorship at Norwich University's College of Arts & Sciences. With over twenty peer-reviewed publications across multiple mathematical disciplines, he teaches eighteen courses including Discrete Mathematics and Calculus, emphasizing deep conceptual understanding to simplify complex problems. He earned his Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Mathematics from Western University and B.A. in Mathematics from Carleton University, Canada. McQuillan's research centers on Combinatorics and Topological Graph Theory, with landmark contributions to magic labelings of graphs and crossing numbers of complete graphs. His work bridges abstract algebra, geometric topology, and pedagogical innovation, frequently collaborating with cross-departmental faculty on calculus teaching methodologies and involving undergraduates in tractable yet profound mathematical research. Recent publications demonstrate sustained focus on graph labelings and topological embeddings, revealing patterns where combinatorial structures yield elegant geometric solutions. This trajectory highlights his philosophy of deriving surprising simplicity from apparent complexity, with problems intentionally designed for undergraduate accessibility. As an academic mentor, he initiated Norwich's participation in the William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition in 2002 and continues coaching the team. His undergraduate research mentorship has produced four peer-reviewed publications in discrete mathematics, primarily through summer projects on magic graph labelings. He leads the Putnam Competition team and directs student summer research initiatives, fostering collaborative environments where undergraduates contribute directly to publishable mathematical discoveries in discrete structures.
