UM Professor Honored with National Education Award

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) named Johnny Lott, along with Margaret (Peg) Smith and Lee V. Stiff, as recipients of the NCTM Lifetime Achievement Award for Distinguished Service to Mathematics Education. The award, which is presented by the Mathematics Education Trust, was established in 1994 to honor those who over a lifetime have contributed significantly to mathematics education through their leadership, teaching, and service at the national level.

Johnny Lott has dedicated his life to mathematics and the education community. He was NCTM president from 2002-2004, and he has served on numerous boards and panels during a career spanning nearly 50 years. A tireless educator, advocate, and supporter of mathematics education, Lott has impacted the lives of many and continues to do so to this day.

Lott was codirector of the Systemic Initiative for Montana Mathematics and Science project. He has been vice president of the Montana Academy of Science, chair for Teaching Children Mathematics and Arithmetic Teacher, and was a board member of the Montana Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

Lott has been the recipient of the Dean Preble Memorial Award, the Meritorious Service Award by the Montana Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and the George and Jane Dennison Faculty Award from the University of Montana. He also has the honor of being a distinguished alumnus from both Union University and Georgia State University.

Lott is now Professor Emeritus at the University of Montana, having worked in the Department of Mathematical Sciences for more than 30 years. His work continues to inspire and educate students and teachers alike.