2004 Mathematical Association of America
Certificate for Meritorious Service
Citation to

Underwood Dudley

The Indiana Section of the MAA is delighted to nominate Underwood (Woody) Dudley for the MAA's Certificate of Meritorious Service. Woody is unsurpassed in his extraordinary contributions to the Section and outstanding efforts consistent with the stated purposes of the Mathematical Association of America and the Section, namely, assisting in promoting the interests of, and improving education in, the mathematical sciences in America, especially at the collegiate level.

Underwood Dudley has been a highly committed Section member since his arrival at DePauw University, where he has served his department as a superbly effective classroom teacher and as department chairperson. Woody regularly attends section meetings, frequently contributes presentations, and always is willing to offer his sly and appreciated advice, both informally and through service on standing committees of the Section. He served as Section chair two times-nearly twenty years apart, and he has also served the MAA at the national level.

Underwood Dudley is the author of many articles and books. Four of his books have been published by the MAA. His award-winning writing style has been recognized many times, including 1996 when he received the MAA's Trevor Evans Award. Who could ever forget Woody's talks? They invariably provide realistic glimpses of our profession, sprinkled with wry humor and always filled with a true sense of the joy of mathematics. It was no surprise to any of us who know Woody that he was named an MAA Polya Lecturer for 1995 and that in 1996 was named as editor of The College Mathematics Journal.

Woody Dudley is an extraordinary example of an effective servant of the goals of the MAA at both local and national levels.

Response from Professor Dudley:

I handed in my first set of grades in December 1958 (Calculus 1) and my last set in May 2003 (Calculus II). Not much progress! I'm deeply grateful for this award, a wonderful way to end a career that lets me feel that I have been of some use.