Dr. Marissa Chesser serves as assistant professor of mathematics at Dordt University. She teaches courses that span topics such as statistics, college algebra, calculus, and topology.
“Mathematics is incredibly complex and diverse, and yet through it all, we can also find patterns and similarities tying together seemingly distinct concepts,” says Chesser. “To me, mathematics is an amazing illustration of the thoughtfulness, creativity, and cohesiveness that our Creator has instilled in creation. I love the opportunities that I get to show students this beauty.”
Dr. Chesser actively contributes to the mathematic community through research and publication. Her work has been published in Proceedings of the AMS, Groups, Geometry, and Dynamics, and Algebraic & Geometric Topology. Her research focuses on the intersection of low-dimensional topology and geometric group theory, often exploring how mathematics can be visually rich and conceptually elegant—demonstrating that math is about more than just numbers and symbols. A complete list of her research interests and publications can be found on her website.
“On a basic level, I love to solve problems,” says Chesser. “But even more than that, I find math to be a very beautiful discipline and the solutions to the problems to be very satisfying.” Motivated by her belief that mathematics allows one to explore their God-given creativity, Chesser seeks to equip students with a well-rounded knowledge of mathematic methods, as well as critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Chesser serves on Dordt’s Research and Scholarship Committee. In her free time, she enjoys cooking and baking, playing a variety of games, crocheting, and spending time outdoors, especially with family and friends.
Education
- Ph.D. in Mathematics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2023)
- M.S. in Mathematics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2019)
- Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Mathematics, Smith College (2017)
- B.S. in Mathematics, Azusa Pacific University (2016)
- B.S. in Computer Science, Azusa Pacific University (2016)