JU math professor, popular tutor Dr. Peter Ryan honored at retirement celebration

Surrounded by faculty colleagues, staff, fellow tutors and supervisors, Dr. Peter Ryan, JU Associate Professor of Mathematics, was honored this week at an informal retirement gathering at Swisher Library for his 35 years’ service to the University. 

“He brought such reliability here, and the students just loved working with him,” said Jody Kamens, coordinator of Swisher’s Tutoring & Learning Center, where Ryan worked the last couple of years as a mathematics tutor. “He brought a touch of class here, and was one of our most popular tutors.” (See photo gallery below.)

While at JU, Ryan served on the Curriculum Committee, Academic Standards and several Mathematics search committees. He was 2009-10 Professor of the Year. He was a GTA at Dartmouth College from 1965-1967, Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Gustavus Adolphus College from 1969 to 1976, and Assistant Professor. 

“I came here because I always like the private college environment,” Ryan said. “I preferred the closer contact with the students and the great faculty peers.” 

Students often sought Ryan out for his guidance and math knowledge, added Dr. Pam Crawford, chair of the Department of Mathematics. 

Ryan received his bachelor’s degree in mathematics from California Institute of Technology in 1965, his A.M. degree in mathematics from Dartmouth College in 1967 and his Ph.D. in mathematics from Dartmouth College in 1969, which was awarded in 1970.

 The retirement event held Monday, April 15, was sponsored by the Department of Mathematics and the Tutoring & Learning Center. In addition, Ryan was honored Friday, March 29, at JU’s 55th annual Faculty Recognition Dinner at the Davis College of Business.