Dr. Valorie Zonnefeld, professor of mathematics at Dordt University, will serve as the 2026–27 Brabenec lecturer through the Association of Christians in the Mathematical Sciences (ACMS).
Dr. Valorie Zonnefeld, professor of mathematics at Dordt University, has been selected to serve as the 2026–27 Brabenec lecturer through the Association of Christians in the Mathematical Sciences (ACMS).
The Brabenec Lectureship was established to support conversations about faith and mathematical sciences at institutions that might not otherwise have the resources to host speakers in this area. During the academic year, the Brabenec Lecturer travels to colleges and universities to engage students and faculty in conversation about the integration of Christian faith and the mathematical sciences.
Founded by Christian mathematics faculty seeking to integrate their faith with their academic discipline, the ACMS has fostered scholarship and collaboration among mathematicians, statisticians, computer scientists, and mathematics educators since 1976.
For Zonnefeld, the appointment is a professional and personal milestone. "I love the ACMS," she says. "The members have played a huge role in my development as a Christian mathematics professor. I anticipate the biannual conferences in a similar way that you anticipate a family reunion; it is such a supportive community. I am honored to represent the ACMS as the Brabanec lecturer."
In many ways, the lectureship serves as an extension of Zonnefeld's ongoing scholarship and work at Dordt. "The lectureship builds on the work that I've done writing and speaking on issues of faith and math," she explains. "Unfortunately, many people view math as not connected to their faith. I am passionate about helping students and teachers make connections between their faith and math."
"My work at Dordt supports preservice teachers in their growth as Christian mathematics teachers," Zonnefeld adds. "The Brabanec lectureship opens doors to continue this work with students and professors beyond Dordt's campus."
About Dordt University
As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by U.S. News and World Report, the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.
Each summer, Dordt University welcomes a variety of external groups and organizations to campus. This year, hundreds of students, staff, and volunteers will call Dordt home for youth conventions and camps, reflecting its commitment to serving the broader Christian community.
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