UW–Madison’s Lisa Hennessey, teaching faculty member and math coordinator in the School of Education’s Department of Curriculum and Instruction, has been elected to the Board of Directors of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM).
The NCTM Board helps shape the vision and direction of the largest mathematics education organization in the world. “This opportunity means so much to me as I am excited to serve on the board to further meet my purpose in life: to ensure that every person is seen and valued as mathematical by their teachers, peers, family, community, and self,” said Hennessey. “I hope to collaborate and build connections and community on a national scale.”
Hennessey, who is also a PhD student in the School of Education’s Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, brings years of experience to the role, having worked as a high school mathematics teacher, K–12 mathematics coordinator, and now as a teacher educator. She has also served as president of the Wisconsin Mathematics Council, a role she called “one of the most impactful professional experiences I have ever had.”
In her campaign statement, Hennessey stressed her commitment to NCTM’s mission of ensuring high-quality learning experiences for all students. “To reach all students, NCTM must refine membership and inclusivity while reinvigorating learning around high school mathematics,” she wrote. “I will continue to bolster networks and broaden NCTM’s reach so that all students have equitable mathematics experiences.”
Hennessey will officially begin her term on the board at the conclusion of the NCTM Annual Meeting and Exposition in Oct. 2025.
To learn more about Hennessey, read her NCTM candidate profile.