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Watch your step: Modeling on Time Scales (Prof. Raegan Higgins, Texas Tech University)
March 1, 2023 @ 4:15 pm - 5:30 pm
Title: Watch your step: Modeling on Time Scales
Speaker: Raegan Higgins, Department of Mathematics & Statistics, Texas Tech University
Abstract: Generally, differential and difference equations are used in the mathematical modeling of physical systems. Our modeling approach uses dynamic equations on time scales. A time scale T is an arbitrary, nonempty, closed subset of the real numbers. While introducing the calculus on time scales, we will give an application of time scales to oncology. We will discuss developing specific models and the related preliminary results and analysis.
Raegan Higgins didn’t always love math. In her eyes, it was a class that everyone had to take. It wasn’t
challenging, nor was it easy; it just was. Upon placing out of Pre-Algebra in middle school, Raegan entered Algebra which quickly became her adversary. With little Pre-Algebra background, she struggled in the course she called “The Land of Unknowns.” But, with a very encouraging no-nonsense teacher and parents who only asked for their daughter’s best, Raegan excelled in Algebra and became an aspiring
mathematician.
In 2008, Raegan was one of the first two African Americans to earn a doctoral degree in Mathematics from the University of Nebraska- Lincoln. She had officially become a mathematician. In that same year, she joined the faculty at Texas Tech University. Her primary research focuses on determining conditions in which solutions to differential-like equations eventually stay positive or negative. While also interested in applications of time scales (nonempty subsets of the real numbers), Dr. Higgins has a keen interest in increasing the number of women, especially those underrepresented, in STEM and improving the undergraduate preparation of mathematics majors. Her service mission is to support communities historically excluded from STEM by creating and supporting programs that increase visibility, amplify the voices of women and people of color, and foster community and share resources. Raegan serves as
codirector of the EDGE (Enhancing Diversity in Graduate Education) Summer Program and cofounder and cocreator of the website Mathematically Gifted and Black.