Iris Gugu Moche
Born:
place: South Africa
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Ph.D. Mathematics
(2002 ) Howard University
thesis: The Natural Map of beta(omega x omega)
into beta(omega) x beta(omega) is
'Very Badly' Not an Isomorphism on the Smallest Ideal; advisor:
Neil Hindman
URL:
email: waazania@aol.com
Gugu Moche also has a computer instruction business per_moche Training Services, Inc.: http://www.per-moche.com/page827801.htm
Dr. Iris Moche, a native South African, grew up in the midst of apartheid where the primary book she carried was the passbook that natives were required to have for identification purposes.
"I grew up in a racially divided society," Moche says. "When it came to math and science, Blacks in South Africa weren't expected to participate."
Still, Moche's upbringing did not stop her growing curiosity about math.
"I used to look at my brother's math books, and I would be drawn to them," Moche says.
Moche, 35, who arrived in the United States 10 years ago, says that her male peers received far more encouragement than she did.
"Math in general is a male-dominated field. In high school a lot of encouragement was given to the males, who weren't even as good as the females (in math). I think growing up in South Africa motivated me because you can't tell me I can't do this. I'll do it, and I'll do it twice as good," Moche says.
Moche, who earned a bachelor's degree in math and computer science from Hood College in Frederick, Md., says her mother was one of the people who gave her the most support and encouragement.
"My mother doesn't understand anything about mathematics, but she believes in motivation. She's a very spiritual woman. She has been, more than any person, my support system," Moche says.
Moche, whose research specialization is in topological semigroups, is an assistant professor at Southeastern University in Washington. She says research and providing encouragement for women who want to pursue mathematics are definitely in her future.
"I want to be actively involved in anything that promotes women in mathematics," Moche says.
references: Author/s: Gabrielle Finley, Issue: August 29, 2002
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