Ed Barbeau’s lifelong love of mathematics, particularly enrichment in mathematics education, has earned him a reputation as a great “popularizer” of the subject in Ontario and across Canada. His willingness to listen to others’ ideas, his careful and deliberate way of thinking through solutions, and his desire to share his knowledge with teachers and students alike, have earned him wide respect in the school community.
Ed grew up in Toronto, attending Parkdale P.S., Parkdale C.I., and the University of Toronto. After receiving his PhD in the United Kingdom, he spent almost his entire career as a professor at U.of T.
Ed has been actively involved in a long list of organizations, including the International Mathematics Olympiad, M.A.A., C.M.S., N.C.T.M. and O.A.M.E. He has authored or co-authored seven books and numerous research papers, as well as being a frequent conference speaker. Among his awards are the David Hilbert Award for Enrichment in Mathematics and the Adrien Pouliot Award for Contributions to Mathematics Education.
Ed plays the piano and pipe organ, and enjoys cryptic crossword puzzles, reading, walking and spending time with his grandchildren.