Young man emerges first black person to earn PhD in Mathematics from Indiana university, celebrates achievement
Kemp obtained his bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Stanford University before proceeding to Indiana University in Bloomington to pursue his doctorate degree in mathematics.
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In a groundbreaking achievement, Dominique Kemp has etched his name in history as the first black individual to earn a Ph.D. in Mathematics from Indiana University in the United States.
Kemp's academic journey began with a bachelor's degree in Mathematics from Stanford University, and he later ventured to Indiana University in Bloomington to pursue his doctorate in mathematics. His path to this remarkable accomplishment was not without challenges, as he was the lone Black student within the program during his last three years at Indiana University. Additionally, there were no Black professors in the mathematics field during his time at the university.
Reflecting on his unique experience, Kemp shared, "I was the closest the students got to having a Black mathematics professor here at IU when I was an associate instructor. In 2018, I believe, I became the only one in the Mathematics Ph.D. program when the last of the other two Black students departed from the program."
Throughout his academic journey, Kemp was an active student, offering tutoring in mathematics and advocating for increased diversity within the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. He is deeply committed to addressing the underrepresentation of Black individuals in STEM disciplines.
Kemp's historic achievement is a source of inspiration for future mathematicians. He expressed his desire to dispel the apprehension that often surrounds mathematics as a daunting field for students, particularly those who fear isolation. He stated, "I think a lot of students don’t go into math because it seems daunting to face the spectre of isolation, but I can play a part now that I have a degree."
In the pursuit of his passion for Theoretical Mathematics research, Kemp plans to continue his work as a mathematics researcher. His academic journey will lead him to the University of Wisconsin for the next four years, after which he will take on a postdoctoral position at Princeton University Institute for Advanced Study.
Dominique Kemp's remarkable story serves as an inspiring example for students aspiring to enter the field of mathematics. He holds his historic accomplishment as the most significant milestone in his life, having persevered through challenges and discouragement to reach this extraordinary achievement.
