Nine tenths of education is encouragement.

Awards are given to two Colorado senior high school students—one male and one female—for outstanding performance in state and national mathematics competitions over several years. Each awardee will each receive a $1,000 scholarship to be used at any certified American University

The core guiding principle is demonstrated excellence across a wide range of problem-solving conditions. This means solving several multiple-choice or single answer problems within a short period of time, as well as solving a few problems requiring explanations or proofs within a few—or even several—hours. Some math contests are hybrid—including both types.

First, performance results over the past six years by Colorado male and female high school seniors are compiled for the following national math competitions:

Next, for high school seniors who have performed notably well in these national competitions, their performance in three state-level competitions is compiled.

Srinivas Arun, freshman, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Gibbs Scholarship recipient at CMA 2024

Janet Barnett, Professor Emerita, CSU at Pueblo, and former Chair of the MAA Rocky Mountain Section

Sally Lambert, math coach in Steamboat Springs for many years and responsible for procuring and engraving medals

Ming Song, math problems composer and math competitions coach for many Colorado students over the years

Nancy Wente, CPA, CMA bookkeeper, and daughter of Dick and Sandy Gibbs

David Carlson and Rhonda Naylor, CMA Co-Chairs

Dr. Richard “Dick” Gibbs was a co-founder and co-chair of Colorado Math Awards with Dr. David Carlson during 1996-2023. After teaching at Ft. Lewis College for 28 years (1971-98), Dick worked with the USA International Mathematical Olympiad team and taught at math camps around the world. He also loved jazz festivals, poker parties, and sharing a good joke! –from the Durango Herald, January 8, 2024.