Igniting a Passion for Math Education

To celebrate the launch of our All for Math: The Campaign for Math Proficiency, we sat down with campaign co-chairs Olga Jacobs and Paul Kinson to talk about their vision, the goals of the campaign, and how everyone can help make higher levels of math proficiency a reality for students nationwide. Both Olga and Paul are active supporters of the Foundation, Olga is an active Trustee member and Paul is a volunteer.

 

Why did you decide to get involved in the All for Math campaign?

Olga:
“For me, it was an easy decision. I’ve seen firsthand how a solid foundation in math can open doors, and I wanted to help create those same opportunities for students who may not otherwise have access to quality math education.”

Paul:
“I believe in the power of math to transform lives. As actuaries, we know how important math proficiency is, not just for our profession but for any future career in STEM. I wanted to help give back in a meaningful way by working with The Actuarial Foundation to make math education more accessible.”

 

What makes All for Math different from other education campaigns?

Olga:
“What sets All for Math apart is that it’s specifically designed by actuaries for the next generation. The actuarial community understands the critical need for math skills in both personal and professional lives. This campaign brings together actuaries who are passionate about using their unique skills to create change.”

Paul:
“Exactly. All for Math is about uniting the entire actuarial community behind a single goal: providing students with the math tools they need to succeed. The support the Foundation already have allows us to reach over 12,000 students each year, and with even more actuaries and supporters involved, we can expand that reach significantly.”

 

How will donations to All for Math impact students?

Olga:
“Every donation supports programs that foster math confidence and proficiency. For instance, our Math Motivators program provides free tutoring to students who need it most, and The Hardest Math Problem competition encourages critical thinking in middle school.

Paul:
“Yes, and programs like Modeling the Future Challenge allow high school students to apply math to real-world issues. Donations will make these programs available to more students, giving them opportunities to build skills that will benefit them for years to come.”

 

What role do you hope the actuarial community will play in All for Math?

Olga:
“Our hope is that more actuaries will step forward—not only to donate but to volunteer. Actuaries have a unique perspective that’s invaluable to students learning to apply math practically. Imagine how impactful it would be for students to have guidance from professionals who use math every day.”

Paul:
“Absolutely. We’re asking actuaries to ‘be the one’ who makes a difference. Whether that means donating, volunteering, or even just spreading the word, every bit of support makes a huge impact.”

 

Why is it so important to launch this campaign now?

Paul:
“The recent National Assessment of Educational Progress shows a significant decline in math proficiency, especially among younger students. We can’t afford to wait—the next generation needs math skills for success in nearly every field.”

Olga:

“Every minute we wait is a minute that a child can’t get back. Another minute that pulls them further behind in developing math skills that they will need to succeed in their future adult everyday lives. With more actuaries involved, we can take immediate action and swing that door wide open to allow all students the opportunity for STEM careers, maybe even get some to be future actuaries as a bonus!

 

How can someone get involved in the All for Math campaign?

Paul:
“There are several ways to help! You can donate, volunteer as a tutor or mentor, or even host a fundraiser. Every action makes a difference, no matter the size.”

Olga:
“Exactly—everyone has a way to contribute. We’re looking forward to working together to build a future where every student has access to quality math education.”

 

With the support of the actuarial community, All for Math will continue to transform lives through math education. Join Olga and Paul in making a difference by visiting the All for Math page to learn more about how you can contribute to a brighter future for students nationwide.