In the tradition of a true mathematician, we celebrate Mathematical Awareness Month at the very last moment possible!
Whereas the words “Mathematical Awareness Month” might bring feelings of anxiety to most, here in the Archives it brings us great pride when we remember one of our university’s great math professors, Joseph Emery.

One out of seven children, Emery was born in Pennsylvania on June 2, 1833 along with his twin sister Mary Emery. He began showing his mathematical uniqueness early, since we all know the probability of being born a twin isn’t very high!

In 1867, a year after his brother-in-law, William A. Finley, became president of the school, Emery joined the faculty teaching mathematics, physics, geology, and physiology. Emery was also involved in administrative affairs with his efforts in raising the money used to purchase the Roberts farm that made up the original school campus.

During his time here Emery was known as an enthusiastic teacher who took a lot of pride in his department and his work. Emery often used hands-on methods of teaching to involve his students in their studies. In 1869 the first mechanical and chemical apparatus was purchased for the school. Emery used it to perform demonstrations, such as sending a shock through the whole student body when they joined hands in a long chain that stretched down one stairwell, outside, and back up the other stairwell. Among his many students during his years here were J.K. Weatherford, William E. Yates, and Ida Burnett Callahan.

In 1871, after the resignation of Finley, Emery was offered the position of president, which he declined. He did however agree to serve as acting president during the summer of 1871, until incoming President Arnold could arrive in September. During this time Emery wrote the biennial report of the college. Included in this report was not only a request for an increase of $10, 000 in the college appropriations, but also an appeal that the legislature “open the doors of the Oregon Agricultural College to the young ladies of Oregon”; at that time the law, if interpreted as written, the law recognized the college as accessible only to male students. Approval was given to both requests — making Emery’s role even more significant. By any calculation, Emery definitely made his mark on university history!