Transforming Math for All: The Seattle Universal Math Museum leaders Tracy Drinkwater & Jenny Quinn share their goals and updates

Tracy Drinkwater from the Seattle Universal Math Museum (SUMM) returns to talk with Fanuel Muindi on CivicSciTV’s Questions of the Day show (exactly 1 year from the previous conversation) and brings along the museum’s new Executive Director, Jenny Quinn. They discuss how SUMM is attempting to revolutionizing math education by making it fun and engaging for all ages through hands-on, playful experiences. Tracy and Jenny delve into their mission to spark a love for math, their innovative programs, and community outreach efforts. They also share exciting future plans, including the search for a permanent location for the museum.

Notable Quotes from the Conversation:

• Tracy Drinkwater: “We engage with community and help people to see through hands-on play that math is more than what they learned in school. It’s fun, beautiful, and creative.”

• Jenny Quinn: “The work I do to feed my soul is about outreach to my community to create a positive mathematical culture. This museum is the culmination of everything I’ve done in my profession.”

• Tracy Drinkwater: “We want to ensure every child feels they have the potential to do whatever they want with math, developing a growth mindset and confidence.”

• Jenny Quinn: “Everything has to be on mission. We aim to spark each and every person to love math, bring math to life, and collaborate with our community.”

Fanuel Muindi

Fanuel Muindi is a former neuroscientist turned civic science ethnographer. He is a professor of the practice in the Department of Communication Studies within the College of Arts, Media, and Design at Northeastern University, where he leads the Civic Science Media Lab. Dr. Muindi received his Bachelor’s degree in Biology and PhD in Organismal Biology from Morehouse College and Stanford University, respectively. He completed his postdoctoral training at MIT.