MCC Daily Tribune

TCC: Day 2 of TCC Gratitude Series: Kudos to You, MCC Math Faculty!

Today marks the second day of celebrating the incredible contributions of MCC faculty and staff. I'm excited to share kudos from our amazing students to the Math faculty, as well as appreciation from colleagues to the entire Math department.

Stay tuned for more kudos coming your way.

Enjoy your day!

Kudos from Students to Math Faculty

Michael Rhoda (Mathematics, Receiving 7 Nominations)

Professor Rhoda is dedicated to helping his students succeed and is very good at explaining tough concepts. He realizes the individual difficulties his students may face and tries to attune to it.
Professor Rhoda is a wonderful Professor. He's very relatable and down to earth. I am so thankful to have him as a professor. He makes statistics (which is a difficult math) fun and easy to understand. He's the best!
Professor Rhoda has completely changed my outlook on taking math courses. Before taking his class, I would dread signing up for math, but he changed my perspective. He makes math interesting, engaging, and very digestible. I’m excited to register for the 4 more math classes I have here at MCC, I know if I ever need help with those classes I can reach out to him.
Mr. Rhoda you are an amazing teacher I'm glad I got you as a professor, you made this class fun. Even with it being at 8 in the morning. You make class fun and just in general you are an amazing person, MCC is lucky to have you.
This is a hard subject to make digestible and interesting, professor Rhoda manages to do both and explain everything in a clear way demonstrating that learning in a classroom setting (at least for this dude) continues to be preferable to classes conducted online.
He is the sweetest professor. He makes statistics so much easier and is very easy to understand. Helps his students, and is very friendly and smart.
Math has always been my least favorite subject, simply because I felt I was never good at it. I would always feel as if I couldn’t be in the major that I’m in because I wasn't the best at math. This semester, I had Professor Rhoda and it has changed my whole perspective about math. You can tell that he genuinely wants his students to succeed. He is always there whenever you need help!

Laura Bond (Mathematics, Receiving 3 Nominations)

She is kind and genuinely wants her students to succeed. I entered her statistics course incredibly anxious as I am terrible at all kinds of math. Somehow I ended up doing very well and even having fun with it at times . She made math a little less intimidating and I feel way more confident in my abilities. I've never had a math teacher who hasn't made me despise math, so Professor Bond was especially remarkable to me as I will be leaving her course with an excellent grade and a new appreciation for the subject.
I take an online class taught by professor Bond, even though math can be such a tricky topic, especially to do online, professor Bond makes it very easy. She is so engaged with our class , kind , funny and is always willing to help you. and that is something I cannot thank her enough for. having support in college is very important, especially from your professors. and professor Bond provides that support.
She is great at making it easy to learn the material she teaches no matter what major you are she often bases it in real world examples which is very helpful

David Herbst (Mathematics, Receiving 3 Nominations)

Herbst is an amazing professor. I personally struggle with both math in general and asking for help in classes but throughout this semester I realized that I was so comfortable in the environment he had created that not only did I understand the math but that I wasn’t nervous to ask questions anymore. It’s amazing what you can accomplish when a professor has his students best interests at heart!
Professor Herbst was my 099/104 professor last semester after our previous professor was hospitalized for weeks. Our class ended up so behind with the amount of cancelled classes and substitutes that we felt concerned for our futures — until Professor Herbst came in. Our class environment then completely changed and we became like a family. Asking questions and have discussions was welcomed, and he would check in with his students on how they were doing. Even after leaving his class he is the kind of professor that I visit and ask how things are going. I would have him for every subject if I could.
Mr. Herbst was one of the best math teachers I have ever seen in my life. He understood what his job was and how to get it done. Mr. Herbst treated the class as if he was our coach and we were his players. Every day it was a ball walking into his class and hearing him crack jokes as we tried to learn algebra and complex math. Mr. Herbst also made it a point that he was always there and rooting for us in the stands he wanted us to be successful. Every unit he would give us our game plan to help prepare for the play offs (final test). He made the class into more of a sports practice session. We would train our brains to remember what we learned so we could win the final test. I have never had a math teacher teach a class like it's a game, which some people might think is bad, but it wasn't. His new way of thinking made me excited along with other students to learn math and succeed that semester. If I could have Mr. Herbst teach all my classes throughout my college semesters I would, that is how good he is. Mr. Herbst is a very kindhearted, down-to-earth guy that anyone would want to be friends with.

Eric Berg (Mathematics, Receiving 2 Nominations)

This is the first math class where I really understood the material. Professor Berg really takes the time to teach and understand his students. He is those one-of-a-kind teachers that are very passionate about their work, and believes it is a rewarding job. Couldn’t have asked for a better professor.
Professor Berg, stands out for his dedication, patience, and unwavering commitment to his students' success in a subject that is often considered challenging. He consistently goes above and beyond—offering extra help, breaking down complex concepts with clarity, and encouraging every student to believe in their ability to succeed. His teaching style is both supportive and engaging, creating an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and truly learning. It’s clear that he genuinely cares, and his efforts make a lasting impact. He is a remarkable professor, and I’m grateful to have been in his class. Especially being the only person on campus with an android. It's tough out here for people like me.

Philip Doku (Mathematics, Receiving 2 Nominations)

Stays focused on teaching the group the math skills we need to learn to succeed. Is there most of the time for lectures, makes it easy to stay engaged in learning.
My math teacher has been incredibly helpful and supportive, especially for students who struggle with understanding math. He always takes the time to explain concepts in different ways until everyone feels confident. His patience and dedication makes a big difference in the classroom, creating a learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and making mistakes. He truly cares about each student’s success and works hard to make sure no one is left behind. Thanks to his guidance, many of us have gained not only better math skills but also more confidence in our ability to learn.

Brigitte Martineau (Mathematics, Receiving 2 Nominations)

She is an amazing professor, makes time for her students, works with them and is flexible. Always willing to help if she can learn the material and assist you if you are struggling to learn the material or need extra help. she also knows her students very well and pays attention to them when they are struggling with stress and school. She is an amazing professor, makes time for her students, works with them and is flexible. Always willing to help if she can learn the material and assist you if you are struggling to learn the material or need extra help. she also knows her students very well and pays attention to them when they are struggling with stress and school.
Professor Martineau is always patient, kind, and helpful. You can really tell that she wants her students to succeed by all means necessary, and she puts in the extra work to ensure that.

Samatha Nally (Mathematics, Receiving 2 Nominations)

Professor Nally is an amazing teacher, she engages in teaching students and makes math fun to learn.
Professor Nally is very clear and offers different problem-solving methods in Math 094. Great teacher and has made learning Math 094 a breeze. Professor Nally is warm and approachable making it easy to talk to.

Michele Iannone (Mathematics, Receiving 2 Nominations)

This professor has gone above and beyond to not only help adult students feel welcome but to understand the content. Down to earth, professional and intelligent, Michele embodies the definition of faculty who cares.
Before Professor Michele’s class I hated math and would give up when things would get tough in previous years. But her encouragement and gentle reminders that I am capable of passing stats has truly kept me going. She is always available to help if you are struggling. At one point , I thought about dropping but the way she supports her students, I felt like I owe it to her to finish strong. I wish all Professors were as dedicated to their students as Michele. I have recommended her to any and everyone because she is the best!

Michael Wagner (Mathematics, Receiving 2 Nominations)

Mr. Wagner is exceptional! As an adult student who hasn't sat in a classroom for almost 20 years, the manner in which he presents the material is very clear and easy to follow. He welcomes questions and has a way of answering them that doesn't make you feel silly. The classroom atmosphere is professional yet casual at the same time. Coming back to school, I honestly was kind of dreading math as I never really excelled in it throughout High School, yet somehow, I managed to maintain a high 90 through the first 3 out of 4 units of material- and I don't think that would be possible without Mr. Wagner and his laid back approach to teaching! Thanks Mr. Wagner!! You are THE MAN!
Professor Wagner's passion for math makes it a more engaging subject. He is patient, and takes the time to answer everyone's questions. He is excellent at breaking down difficult concepts and explaining them in an interesting way. I learned so much in his class.

Emily Putnam (Mathematics)

In recognition to why this specific teacher (Ms. Putnam) is remarkable is because of the efforts she always demonstrates to us in class (whether that’s on zoom or in person). She makes me laugh and try and help us to motivate more in our coursework to try to not make it as hard and difficult as it seems. Although it does require a lot of mental and theoretical work, she always strives to help us on each problem when we need it and go over questions step by step. Ms. Putnam assists in helping us build an understanding on the subject. Ms. Putnam as well, in my perspective is a very great teacher that demonstrates her great listening skills, credibility, knowledge and genuine care for students.

James Cala (Mathematics)

Mr. Cala works with a range of different students. Despite individual learning challenges, he finds a way to ensure that the work is clearly understood.

Amy Witt (Mathematics)

Stays focused on teaching the group the math skills we need to learn to succeed. Is there most of the time for lectures, makes it easy to stay engaged in learning.

Amy Burns (Mathematics)

She is an amazing professor, makes time for her students, works with them and is flexible. Always willing to help if she can learn the material and assist you if you are struggling to learn the material or need extra help. she also knows her students very well and pays attention to them when they are struggling with stress and school.

Paul Seeburger (Mathematics)

My math teacher is amazing at breaking down difficult topics and making them easy to understand with simple explanations and relatable examples. He is always patient and supportive, and he’s there for you when you need help, even staying for office hours.

Linda Carson (Mathematics)

Professor Linda Carson should be recognized for her diligence when it comes to making sure that every student clearly understands the material. From helping students during class hours, to coming in early to make sure everyone is prepared for exams. Professor Carson offers helpful hints to remember. For me, her style of teaching is very adaptable. With a students commitment to learn and her teaching, you will succeed. Thank you Professor Carson.

Mary Cameron (Mathematics)

Mrs. Michele is very thorough, and makes statistics easy to understand. She makes sure that all students who put the time in, will succeed. I have never been a fan of math, but this semester of statistics has been enjoyable.

Michele Iannone (Mathematics)

Andrea Giardino (Mathematics)

I have always been a poor student in math, Mrs. G has found a way to clearly make me understand the current content while also taking the time to reteach to me topics from earlier classes for me to feel confident in my work, outside of class content she has been a guide for me while I navigate my first year in college, she has either found or had the answer to every question I've asked her about MCC, planning and goals and whatever else is on my mind. I think that out of many teachers I have experienced, Mrs. G shows me everyday that she wants me to succeed and cares about my future.

Elizabeth Walker (Mathematics)

Professor Walker, and her furry friend, make class so enjoyable. She uses so many different techniques and ways of teaching to make each lesson unique and understandable. She will always offer extra help, and never gets frustrated with questions. One of the best math professors at MCC.

Christian Wischmann (Mathematics)

He is so generous to students. He gives everyone the opportunity to make up their missing work or assignment. Professor Christian doesn't discriminate nor frown. He dedicates his time and energy to make sure everyone succeeds.

Macula, Anthony (Mathematics)

Thank you for your patience, your diligent efforts to make sure we understand the information.
Thank you for being approachable and beyond fair! As well as professional and punctual. I appreciate your communication with the class. I feel like you do an outstanding job of trying to find relatable content that will help us understand clearly.

Kudos from Colleagues to Colleagues

Mark Ernsthausen Mathematics)

Throughout this semester, he has coached and guided me through scenarios that has helped me tremendously. He welcomes conversation with no hesitation when having questions.

Eric Berg (Mathematics)

Eric led multiple discussion groups for faculty/staff always with grace and meaningful input and soft leadership ambiance.

Melis Kural
Teaching & Creativity Center
05/14/2025