About the Conference

This is the first conference, specifically on these two subjects, held at University of Maryland. The speakers were chosen to highlight connections between the two subjects, especially in areas related to Wolpert's contributions.

About Scott Wolpert

After receiving his Ph.D. from Stanford University in 1976, Scott Wolpert joined the Department of Mathematics at the University of Maryland, where he has remained ever since. Last year he achieved Emeritus status following his retirement.

Scott's research career included fundamental contributions to geometry and analysis of Riemann surfaces. His work on the Weil-Petersson geometry of Teichmüller space earned him an invitation to the International Congress of Mathematicians in 1986. His work in spectral geometry of Riemann surfaces included the resolution (with Gordon and Webb)  of Marc Kac's famous question: "Can you hear the shape of a drum?" 

His service record is notable, having served as Associate Chair for Undergraduate Studies, Associate Dean in the College of Science, Associate Dean in the Office of Undergraduate Affairs, and, most recently, Chair of the Department of Mathemaics. His work on Calculus Reform led to an award as University of Maryland Distinguished Scholar-Teacher, and his work as Associate Dean earned him a Kirwan Award at the University of Maryland.