Dr. Clarence E. Hardgrove

Dr. Clarence Ethel Hardgrove, an internationally prominent specialist in mathematics education, a professor in the Department of Mathematics from 1950 until her retirement in 1977. Professor Hardgrove taught in various public schools for 14 years before becoming an instructor at Ohio State University in 1948 while achieving her Ph.D. She holds a B.A. from Marshall University and an M.A. from West Virginia University. Professor Hardgrove was an outstanding teacher who was highly regarded by her students, and who was known for her high standards. She was a strong advocate for reform in the teaching of mathematics through her work on the School Mathematics Study Group and the national Mathematical Association of America Panel on Teacher Training of the Committee on the Undergraduate Program in Mathematics. She served as vice-president for the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and was coauthor of a geometry text. She developed mathematics courses, and was recipient of the Illinois Council of the Teachers of Mathematics prestigious Max Beberman Award for lifetime achievement. She was greatly instrumental in the development of the NIU Mathematical Science Department, not only in mathematics education, but also in its attainment of increased stature in pursuit of the Ph.D. degree. She played a significant role in governance at NIU including a year of service as Executive Secretary of the University Council. She was a founder of the Faulty Fund scholarship program and has given major service to NIU and the mathematics department both as a member of the NIU Foundation Advisor Board and as an individual member of the Foundation. This award honors Professor Emeritus Clarence Ethel Hardgrove. Professor Hardgrove was an outstanding teacher who was highly regarded by her students, and who was known for her high standards.