Brawley is S.C. Professor of the Year

A Clemson University mathematics professor who has been known to play his guitar and sing a version of Kenny Rogers' "The Gambler" to help students better understand probability is the 2001 South Carolina Governor's Professor of the Year. Joel Brawley, alumni distinguished professor of mathematical sciences, is the recipient of the award for four-year institutions. The S.C. Commission on Higher Education recognizes excellence in teaching in the state's institutions of higher education.

"Joel Brawley has been a colleague and role model for me in my own teaching," said Clemson University President James F. Barker. "He approaches teaching with a creativity and energy that's admirable."
A research consultant to the National Security Agency who is known for his work in finite field theory, Brawley said he is especially honored to be recognized for what he does inside the classroom.
"I like to work with students," he said. "That's been my joy all my academic life. I love to see the light turned on, see the comprehension come across their faces."

Brawley, who has been teaching at Clemson since 1965, earned his bachelor's degree in engineering mathematics, his master's degree in applied mathematics and his doctorate in mathematics from North Carolina State University. He has received numerous honors and awards including in 1999 the Mathematical Association of America's Deborah and Franklin Tepper Haimo Award for Distinguished College Teaching. The Haimo Award is considered the nation's most prestigious college mathematics teaching award.