Jamol Pender Earns the 2026-2027 Claytor-Gilmer Fellowship
Jamol Pender, an associate professor at Cornell University, has been awarded the prestigious 2026-2027 Claytor-Gilmer Fellowship by the American Mathematical Society (AMS). Since joining Cornell in 2015, Pender has made significant contributions to the field of operations research and information engineering, serving also as the director of graduate studies in his department.
The Fellowship’s Significance
The Claytor-Gilmer Fellowship, established in 2021, aims to promote excellence in mathematics research while enhancing the participation and success of Black mathematicians in the research community. Awardees receive not only a substantial financial grant of $75,000 but also an AMS membership throughout the fellowship period. This initiative underscores the AMS’s commitment to diversity and equity within the mathematical sciences, highlighting the importance of providing opportunities for underrepresented groups.
Research Contributions
Pender’s research interests center on applied probability, queueing theory, and stochastic modeling. These areas are crucial for addressing real-world problems, making his work both impactful and relevant. Recent projects have included studying information-driven customer behavior, exploring how infectious diseases spread in spatial environments, and utilizing queueing models to analyze the implications of bail reform. Each of these topics not only advances academic research but also contributes to societal betterment by offering insights into significant issues.
A Personal Reflection
Expressing his gratitude upon receiving the fellowship, Pender stated, “I am deeply honored to receive the 2026–2027 AMS Claytor-Gilmer Fellowship, an award that both recognizes research excellence and affirms the importance of diversity within the mathematical sciences.” His words reflect not just personal achievement, but also a commitment to fostering inclusivity in academia. He acknowledged his mentors, collaborators, and family for their unwavering support throughout his academic journey, emphasizing the collaborative nature of scholarly success.
Recognition at a National Event
Pender was officially recognized for this honor on January 5, 2026, during the Joint Mathematics Meetings held in Washington, D.C. This event is a significant gathering in the mathematics community, providing a platform for professionals to share their findings and networking opportunities to foster future collaborations.
Honoring Pioneers in Mathematics
The fellowship is named in honor of two pioneering figures in mathematics: Dr. William Schieffelin Claytor, the first African American man to publish a research article in a peer-reviewed mathematics journal, and Dr. Gloria Ford Gilmer, the first African American woman to achieve this milestone. Their legacies serve as inspirational benchmarks for future generations of mathematicians and reinforce the importance of representation in academic leadership.
Community Impact
Pender’s accomplishments not only highlight his personal dedication to the field of mathematics but also reflect the broader goal of enhancing diversity in STEM disciplines. By advancing this cause through his research and mentorship, Pender sets a powerful example of how mathematics can serve as a tool for social change. His work encourages dialogue around critical issues while fostering an academic environment where diversity is celebrated and cultivated.
Pender’s recognition through the Claytor-Gilmer Fellowship encapsulates the possibilities that lie at the intersection of mathematical excellence and social responsibility, marking an inspiring chapter in both his career and the movement toward inclusivity in academia.