Roxanne Back, Ph.D.
Associate Provost
Associate Professor of Mathematics
Learning is a dynamic and interactive process. Through meaningful and engaged experiences, students can construct their own understanding and develop confidence in their abilities. Creating an environment where incorrect answers are seen as valuable learning opportunities is essential, as they provide chances to deepen understanding and spark critical thinking. The classroom should be a space where curiosity thrives, questions are encouraged, and students feel empowered to explore, reflect, and grow.
Biography
Dr. Roxanne Back brings over two decades of dedicated experience in higher education, blending her expertise in mathematics, academic administration, and student-centered initiatives to foster a vibrant and engaged learning environment.
As the Associate Provost for Academic Affairs at Florida Southern College since 2023, Dr. Back oversees key areas such as the Office of Student Travel, the Teaching and Learning Center, and the Honors Program. She leads initiatives in experiential learning, and academic operations, collaborating across departments to implement policies and programs that support faculty and students.
Before her current role, Dr. Back served as Honors Program Director, where she provided leadership to strengthen the program and foster interdisciplinary opportunities that promote intellectual growth. Her earlier career as an Associate Professor of Mathematics highlights her passion for teaching and mentoring, with a focus on innovative teaching, global engagement through study abroad programs, and collaborative research with students.
Dr. Back’s leadership extends beyond Florida Southern. As Chair of the Mathematics Department at Mount Mary University, she guided faculty development, curriculum design, and departmental strategy. Her teaching portfolio spans undergraduate and graduate courses, including advanced mathematics, general education, and liberal arts.
A committed scholar, Dr. Back has published peer-reviewed papers on topics such as combinatorics and assessment in education. She has delivered invited keynote lectures, including a TEDx Talk, and facilitated workshops on mathematics education for diverse audiences.
Education
- Ph.D. in Mathematics, Auburn University, 2010
- B.A. in Mathematics, Florida Southern College, 1999
Awards
- Judge of Student Presentations; MAA Math Fest, Madison WI, 2012
- Referee for Papers submitted to The Pentagon (undergraduate math journal); 2009-present
- Member: Math Association of America; 2008-present
- Member: Wisconsin Mathematics Council; 2008–present
- Judge of Student Papers for National KME Convention; April 2007
- MMC Mini-grant; Fall 2006, Spring 2007
- ETS Recognition of Excellence Award; Fall 2006
- Fellowship: University Wisconsin Milwaukee; 2000
- B.P. Reinsch Mathematics Award; Florida Southern College, 1999