The Mathematical Association of America (MAA) has honored Alumni Distinguished Professor Emeritus Ezra A. “Bud” Brown with its Certificate of Meritorious Service Award. Brown is among five recipients of the 2020 award. 

“The individuals we honor represent the spirit of community that is at the heart of MAA,” said Michael Pearson, executive director of MAA, in a news release. “Their willingness to give of their time, energy, and expertise to benefit their sections and beyond serves as a fresh reminder of why the MAA remains so close to my heart.”

The Mathematical Association of America is the world’s largest community of mathematicians, students, and enthusiasts, according to its website. It’s mission: accelerate the understanding of the world through mathematics because mathematics drives society and shapes lives. 

“It has been a privilege and a joy to serve in our community, and I have gotten much more out of the MAA and our section than I have put into them: friendships, colleagues, and mainly people who share your views about mathematics and education,” Brown said.

Brown was honored with the title Alumni Distinguished Professor Emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors in 2017. Joining Virginia Tech Department of Mathematics in 1969, Brown made significant contributions to number theory and related areas of mathematics. He received six national writing awards from the MMA and his extensive professional service was recognized with the first Sister Helen Christensen Service Award, also from the MMA. 

Among his awards at Virginia Tech are the university’s Omicron Delta Kappa G. Burke Johnston Award, an Edward S. Diggs Teaching Scholar Award, and a William E. Wine Award.