Welcome

Welcome to the Society of Descartes Medallists website. The Society of Descartes Medallists was founded in 1968 by the Rene Descartes Foundation for the Advancement of Mathematics at the University of Waterloo. This Society has met annually since 1968 for the express purpose of paying tribute to mathematics and/or computer science teachers of Ontario who are identified as being worthy of special recognition. Each year the Foundation admits new members, chosen for their contribution to the noble cause of mathematics education, to life membership in the Society of Descartes Medallists.

The Faculty of Mathematics at the University of Waterloo enjoys a close relationship with the teachers of mathematics and computer studies in the schools of Ontario, and indeed across our great country. It is a relationship cherished by the Faculty, for it has led to a spirit of friendship experienced only rarely in other disciplines, and it has ensured that students in our schools have richer educational experiences.

Many of these teachers have laboured with no thought of personal reward, devoting themselves not only to the cause of mathematics education,but also to the general well-being of their students and their profession. It would be unfortunate indeed were their efforts not recognized.