WASILLA -- Mat-Su College mathematics professor Ping-Tung Chang was honored Thursday in Washington, D.C., with one of this year's U.S. Professor of the Year award by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.
Chang, who's taught at University of Alaska Anchorage's Valley college for 22 years, is known for his ability to teach students who are "afraid" of math or have been unable to succeed in learning math in the past.
"We are proud to have Dr. Chang teaching at UAA," said Chancellor Fran Ulmer.
"His talent for teaching, dedication to his students and commitment to their success exemplify the qualities of an outstanding educator and serve as a model for others. This award is richly deserved!"
He had been named Alaska's Professor of the Year in 2009 by the council. Regional awards are given to educators in each state, but the national award recognizes the best of the best.
According to council, the professors of the year program salutes the most outstanding undergraduate instructors in the country -- those who excel in teaching and positively influence the lives and careers of students.
This is the only national program to recognize excellence in undergraduate teaching and mentoring.
"Dr. Chang fervently believes it is his mission to change the way people view the teaching of mathematics," said Dennis Clark, former director of Mat-Su College. "I think you would be hard pressed to find a person who puts more heart and soul into the success of his students than Dr. Chang."
Chang has written a mathematics textbook in the Chinese language that is now used by several universities in China, according to Mat-Su College officials.
Mat-Su College offers more than 200 courses to 1,900 students on a 950-acre campus -- the largest in the University of Alaska system.
By K.T. McKEE
kmckee@adn.com