Word to the Wise | Dr. Dwayne Dixon

by India Crowe

Each day, there was a new problem to be solved, and each car ride was nothing short of a lesson, whether moral or mathematical. Dr. Dewayne Dixon’s trips with his grandmother became a vehicle for learning, and connecting numbers to real-life problems. Each discussion was either challenging or inspirational. From a little boy solving mathematical operations in the backseat to a professor demonstrating solutions in his own classroom at Hampton University, Dixon aims to model that same joy of learning to all.

During his time as a mathematics PhD student at Howard, Dixon was instrumental in restoring the student chapter of the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics. 

Now, as a 2025-2027 Mathematically Black & Gifted-Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (MBG-SIAM) Early Career Fellow, he continues his mission of dismantling the stigma of AI and advancing the field of mathematics education. 

The Sway (TS): What about mathematics appeals to you, and how does your current fellowship expand on this interest? 

Dr. Dewayne Dixon (DD): From an early age, I was drawn to mathematics, largely thanks to my paternal grandmother who raised me. Even before I started school, she would point out numbers and various operations during car rides—an experience that instilled in me a genuine love for math. Over time, I grew passionate not only about solving problems myself but also about helping others overcome their fears of mathematics. I find it incredibly rewarding to witness a student grasp a concept they once thought impossible. 

This enthusiasm naturally led me to opportunities that merge my love for math with educational outreach, and my current fellowship plays a pivotal role in expanding these interests. The Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM) has a vibrant Math Education community, among many others, that allows me to collaborate with professionals who share my passion for spreading the joy of mathematics. By engaging with these communities, I get to explore new teaching strategies, mentor upcoming scholars, and remain informed about the latest developments in applied mathematics and its educational impact. 

TS: Considering your extensive experience in learning and teaching at HBCUs, what is the significance of the HBCU experience? 

DD: Teaching and learning at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) hold a special place in my heart. HBCUs offer an environment where students are encouraged to explore who they are as individuals while pursuing academic excellence. The faculty, staff, and administration create a tight-knit community that nurtures new ideas, ensuring every student has the resources and encouragement to achieve their goals. 

Personally, my confidence soared under the personalized advising and mentoring I received at an HBCU—an experience I believe is hard to replicate elsewhere. This nurturing structure fosters a support system of peers and professionals who share similar goals of positively impacting both their disciplines and their communities. 

TS: Why are interdisciplinary and collaborative efforts essential in developing AI, especially in this age of rapid technological development? 

DD: AI has become a transformative force across nearly every sector, and its impact will only increase. Interdisciplinary and collaborative efforts are vital because they ensure diverse perspectives guide AI’s development and application. By educating both STEM and non-STEM communities about the creation, ethical use, and real-world implications of AI tools, we can harness their true power responsibly. 

Collaboration helps dispel fears rooted in misinformation and the unknown. When experts from different fields come together—engineers, mathematicians, social scientists, ethicists, and more—it promotes transparency, fosters innovation, and ensures that AI serves humanity equitably. My own work aims to broaden the conversation around AI so everyone benefits, from students in the classroom to professionals in the field. 

TS: How did your experience at Howard’s Graduate School prepare you for your fellowship? Any mentors or role models along your journey? 

DD: My time at Howard’s Graduate School was instrumental in shaping my current path. Two mentors in particular stand out: Dr. Dennis Davenport and Dr. Bourama Toni. Dr. Toni introduced me to SIAM and supported the revival of Howard's student chapter. What started as an idea to give back soon evolved into a collaborative effort, where we launched a middle school tutoring initiative at Howard (MS)^2. Dr. Davenport and Dr. Toni provided constant guidance and support to ensure that this initiative thrived. 

Additionally, the seminars we hosted under SIAM packed rooms, illustrating the collective enthusiasm for mathematical learning and community building. Today, Howard’s SIAM student chapter continues to flourish under the leadership of the undergraduate president, Cheyene Henry, carrying on our mission to blend mathematics, education, and outreach. 

TS: Have there been any particular challenges for you in your field of study? How have you overcome them? 

DD: While I haven’t encountered significant obstacles in terms of my personal research journey, I do focus on bridging the gap between emerging technologies like AI and the broader public. A major challenge in mathematics education is the need to modernize curricula to keep pace with rapid technological changes. I am addressing this by writing textbooks and developing courses that reflect the latest trends—integrating AI concepts into foundational math instruction. By emphasizing ethics, bias prevention, and real-world applications, I strive to make AI a practical and comprehensible tool for everyone. 

TS: How do you hope your research will advance your field and society? 

DD: Education remains my guiding principle. My goal is to show how mathematics underpins modern technologies—especially AI—and to make these connections accessible to all. By designing curricula that spotlight the ethical dimensions of AI and its mathematical foundations, I hope to cultivate a generation of students who are both competent in using these tools and mindful of their societal impact. Ultimately, my research and teaching aim to empower individuals to make informed decisions and contribute innovations that benefit their communities. 

TS: Any general career advice for others? 

DD: Find a path that genuinely excites you and be proactive in understanding how emerging technologies—particularly AI—will shape your field. Rather than fearing AI, learn how to integrate it into your work as a powerful ally. By staying ahead of the curve, you not only safeguard your career from becoming obsolete but also position yourself to lead future advancements. Embrace continuous learning, remain flexible, and above all, be ready to adapt as technology evolves. This is just the beginning of a new era, and those who engage openly and responsibly with AI will be best prepared to succeed.