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Black History Month
2018 Honoree

Back to Circle of Excellence
Monica F. Cox

Monica F. Cox

Professor and Department Chair

Department of Engineering Education

The Ohio State University

 

Where are you from?

Newville, Alabama

 

Please describe an experience (or 2) that helped you discover/ cultivate your interest in the mathematical sciences.

I took computer science classes at a community college when I was a child in the early 1980s. Seeing the translation of mathematics concepts to desktop computers sparked my initial interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

 

What is/are your most proud accomplishment(s) in regards to your career in the mathematical sciences?

Obtaining my undergraduate mathematics degree from Spelman College was a proud moment given the fact that I attended a high school where no Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate classes were offered. As an undergraduate, I studied diligently to learn mathematics concept in college, and I graduated with honors. Perseverance was a key theme for me, and my Spelman experience laid the foundation for future mastery of disciplinary concepts.

 

What is/are your most proud accomplishment(s) in regards to your personal life?

There are so many to choose from! I love being married to my husband, Ishbah Cox, for 16 years. I also have enjoyed producing doctoral graduates that have gone on to be professors and professionals across the world. I include engagement with my students as personal because, at the end of their experiences, we were like family.

 

Please share some words of wisdom/inspiration.

Never give up. Surround yourself with good people. Don’t limit your vision to what you can see with your eyes.