In Europe, and some times in the United States, a well-known scientist’s 60^th birthday is often celebrated by a scientific conference on his topic of research, organized by students and friends. During September 23-26, the friends and students of Professor Vieri Benci honored him during the international conference, Variational and Topological Methods in Nonlinear Analysis, at the Downtown Campus of The University of Texas at San Antonio.

Co-hosted by UTSA and the Università degli Studi di Bari, Italy, the conference brought 50 international mathematicians to San Antonio to discuss nonlinear analysis. A general area of mathematics, nonlinear analysis is the study of equations and systems that are not linear. Although the conference topic was quite specific and advanced, its impact on the university is far-reaching.

“This conference presents a great opportunity for our faculty and students to meet and interact with renowned mathematicians from around the world,” said Dr. Shair Ahmad, professor of mathematics and conference organizer. The speakers were selected by the scientific committee, a committee of leaders in mathematics, two of whom are members of the National Academy of Sciences. “Having a conference of this magnitude at UTSA enhances the international reputation of our university,” he said.

Benci has led a distinguished career in mathematics. In addition to being the honored guest of the conference, Benci’s contributions to the mathematics community are highlighted in a special issue of the journal Advanced Nonlinear Studies of which Ahmad is founder and managing editor. According to Professor Dino Fortunato, friend and long-time collaborator of Benci, and editor of the special issue of Advanced Nonlinear Studies, Benci has a “strong curiosity and great enthusiasm for mathematics and all the sciences.”

That enthusiasm can be seen in his interaction with students, many of whom have gone on to successful academic careers themselves. At a preliminary meeting on Wednesday afternoon, Benci addressed 12 graduate students with an interest in nonlinear analysis, but little experience with the topic. He wanted to be sure the students could participate in the rest of the conference with a clearer understanding of the highly-specific topic.

With the success of this conference, the department hopes more students and qualified prospective faculty will recognize UTSA as a premier place to pursue mathematics research.

by Amanda Beck - Communications Specialist