World-Renowned Mathematics Professor and Social Entrepreneur, Dr. Po-Shen Loh at 2021 Middle School Math Invitational

Energy and charisma. Humble and simple, yet very engaging and available to anyone that wanted to talk. Those are the best words to describe the visit of world-renowned mathematics professor and social entrepreneur, Dr. Po-Shen Loh, during the American Heritage Schools' 2021 Middle School Math Invitational in December.

Dr. Loh has impressive accomplishments as a student, teacher, and innovator, including graduating top in his class at CalTech (California Institute of Technology), earning his doctorate in mathematics from Princeton University, and, currently, teaching as a math professor at Carnegie Mellon University. He is also the national coach of the USA International Mathematical Olympiad team that achieved its first-ever back-to-back No. 1-rank victories in 2015 and 2016, and again in 2018 and 2019, making history as the head coach of the U.S. team winning consecutive gold medals, twice.

The American Heritage Schools 2021 Middle School Math Invitational included three presentations by Dr. Loh to the parents and students throughout the day. The event was open to everyone in South Florida, and the excitement of the students was very noticeable. The first presentation was for the parents, with close to 100 people in attendance. He took the time to explain his focus on the Junior High grades (6th to 8th), a vital time for growth in math skills.

During the second presentation, with an Open Discussion concept, Dr. Loh took the time to speak to students. He was treated like a rock star, with students circling around him to ask for photos and autographs. It was a treat to be part of that moment, with the students asking questions and enjoying conversations with the great math enthusiast and evangelist.

The third one was in front of close to 400 people, as part of the award ceremony, where he spent another hour answering questions.

What an experience for all the students and parents that were able to attend the event! Thank you to Dr. Radleigh Santos and Mr. Derek Rampal, Head Coaches for the Math Competition Teams, and Richard Rovere, Director of Math Competition, for this incredible opportunity and a very successful event!