Faculty Friday: Jayashree (Jay) Hurlburt

Pi Week is a special time for mathematicians worldwide, celebrating the mathematical constant pi (π) and its infinite possibilities. It serves as a reminder of the importance of mathematics in our daily lives and how it can be used to solve problems in various fields, such as engineering, science, and technology. This year it's even more special with the addition of SUNY CCC's Math Club MiT (Mathematicians in Training)! 

SUNY CCC is honoring Pi-Week with a special edition of Faculty Friday by featuring Jayashree (Jay) Hurlburt, Math Professor at CCC — who oversees the club and brings great STEM expertise and insight. Professor Hurlburt has taught math at CCC since 2000 and has advocated for STEM students throughout her career. Through her classes, she works to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue their goals in the STEM field. 

With a passion for inspiring students from all backgrounds to become successful professionals in the STEM industry, Professor Hurlburt positively impacts the lives of students and the CCC community. Join us as we celebrate Pi Week with Professor Hurlburt and learn more about her background, teaching, and hobbies outside the classroom!

Q: When did you begin working at SUNY CCC, and why/how did you end up here?
A: I started as an adjunct in the Fall of 2000 but got hired full-time in the Fall of 2001. My husband, George Hurlburt, and I moved from Kansas to this area to be closer to family.

Q: What classes do you teach at SUNY CCC?
A: I teach various levels of Mathematics courses - Quantitative Reasoning, College Algebra, Precalculus, Calculus II and III, and Linear Algebra have been part of my schedule for the past few years.

Q: What's your favorite part about being a faculty member at SUNY CCC?
A: Without a doubt, my favorite part about being a faculty member is being in the classroom. I love Mathematics and enjoy teaching it to students! I also greatly appreciate my colleagues in the Math department. Some have retired or passed on, but they have taught me so much! I am grateful to them and the current Math faculty.

Q: What's been the best part of your professional career?
A: As part of my professional career, I am a member of NYSMATYC (New York State Mathematics Association of Two-Year Colleges) and AMATYC (American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges). Attending these conferences and being a campus representative has greatly enriched my career. I have also gotten my students involved with these organizations' activities. Some of them have even received scholarships and awards from these organizations.

Q: What's one thing most people don't know about you?
A: Recently, I have taken up star gazing with my family. I got a 10-inch Dobsonian telescope for my birthday a couple of years ago, and that has added a lot of fun to our summer nights. Once you see the rings of Saturn and some of the many satellites of Jupiter, you are completely hooked!

Q: What do you like to do during your free time/time outside of the classroom?
A: I like going on walks irrespective of the weather or time of day. It helps me clear my thoughts and gives me renewed energy. When I have time, I love to read, listen to music and podcasts, and bake bread. I also enjoy gardening very much.