Zachary K. Collier

Where am I from?

I am from Trenton, South Carolina, where my family has lived for generations on land that my great-grandfather, the last enslaved person in our lineage, cultivated and passed down. Growing up immersed in this rich heritage taught me the importance of perseverance and community, values that have shaped both my personal and professional journey.

Describe an experience that helped you discover or cultivate your interest in the mathematical sciences.

I owe a great deal to Dr. Fortner-Wood, Dr. Bradely Witzel, and the McNair Scholars Program at Winthrop University. Participating in the McNair Summer Research Program was a transformative experience that introduced me to the field of measurement and statistics—a world I hadn’t even known existed. Through that program, I had the chance to immerse myself in research, analyzing data in ways that revealed meaningful patterns and stories. It was in those moments that I realized the power of mathematical sciences to drive understanding and change, sparking a passion that continues to guide my career to this day.

What are your most proud accomplishments in your career in the mathematical sciences?

My proudest accomplishments in my career often revolve around my growth as a researcher and the tangible outcomes of that growth. Each new publication feels like a milestone—the thrill of developing an idea, the challenges of refining it, and the satisfaction of seeing it come to life in a journal article.

What are your most proud accomplishments in your personal life?

Personally, I am proudest of my role as a mentor and advocate. Some of my most fulfilling moments stem from spontaneous hallway chats with students, where a simple “How are things really going?” evolves into solutions that help them navigate challenges. I also cherish seeing former mentees thrive, such as one who became a tenure-track professor and another who interned at NASA. These relationships embody the legacy I hope to leave—one that extends beyond my own achievements.

Words of wisdom/inspiration:

To the next generation of scholars in the mathematical sciences, I offer this: Every obstacle, no matter how daunting, can be overcome. Remember, you eat an elephant one bite at a time. Stay persistent, stay grounded, and always leave the door open for others to follow.