Christine Larson
Christine Larson is the Kemp Endowed Professor of Honors Mathematics at South Dakota State University, where she has been a dedicated faculty member since 1992. Over more than three decades, she has built a distinguished career focused on mathematics education, particularly in preparing future teachers for grades 6 through 12. In 2023, she was appointed to the prestigious endowed professorship, a milestone that reflects her long-standing impact on both her institution and the broader field of mathematics education.
Dr. Larson’s work centers on developing rigorous and engaging curricula that blend deep mathematical understanding with effective teaching methodology. She teaches courses on methods of teaching mathematics, supports honors-level learning through colloquia, and leads immersive travel study programs that expand students’ global perspectives. These short-term study abroad experiences, including programs in countries such as the Netherlands and Belgium, provide students with unique opportunities to connect academic learning with cultural exploration.
She holds a Doctorate in Mathematics Education and a Master’s degree in Mathematics from Montana State University-Bozeman, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and English from Augustana University in South Dakota. A committed member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, Dr. Larson is passionate about mentoring future educators and fostering a lifelong love of learning. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes mentorship, experiential learning, and sustained enthusiasm for the profession, all of which continue to shape the next generation of mathematics teachers.
• Doctorate in Mathematics Education
• Montana State University-Bozeman- M.S.
• Montana State University-Bozeman- Ed.D.
• Kemp Endowed Professor of Honors Mathematics (2023)
• National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
• National Collegiate Honors Council
• South Dakota teachers of mathematics
• NCTM
• Local Humane Society
What do you attribute your success to?
I would say that part of it is the support of my family, specifically probably my mother and father. But also the support that I received through mentors at the university when I started. That's why I feel like a mentor is so important, because they can really help with you progressing in your career. And then finally, the fact that I just absolutely love what I do.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
One would be to find a mentor that can help them sort of navigate the expectations of higher education. Find what they're passionate about, whether that be within their work or within their private life, and really foster that passion. Just make sure that they're doing something they love.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
A key challenge and opportunity in mathematics today is increasing visibility and creating clear pathways for women in the field, where they remain underrepresented, with platforms that highlight women’s achievements helping to open doors and model career progression.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are the support of family and mentors, along with sustaining a genuine passion for the work I do.