Angélica Gonzalez is a first generation Mexican American and first generation college graduate who grew
up in Los Angeles county. She was raised in a modest but joyful home, where education was
encouraged. Her favorite childhood game was to play school with her siblings, with math her favorite
subject. Despite her early love for learning, language barriers plus a lack of self-confidence caused
Angélica to struggle through her first few years of grade school. A turning point came in 3rd grade when a
teacher encouraged Angélica to be comfortable with herself, helping her bridge the gap between her love
of learning and school. This marked the beginning of her academic success. Her academic drive
alongside her parents’ unlimited support led her to pursue higher education. She attended Whittier
College, where her passion for mathematics only grew. She encountered fantastic mentoring, leading to
her leaving her comfort-zone and attending the Summer Math Program for Women, Budapest Semesters
in Mathematics, and EDGE. After graduating, she continued her studies at the University of Arizona,
where she earned her PhD in mathematics. She is currently a lead data scientist at McGraw Hill.

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During her academic career, Angélica continually sought to both teach and serve. She taught several
undergraduate courses, including College Algebra, Calculus, and Math for Teachers. Her commitment to
teaching earned her the University of Arizona’s Mathematics Department Outstanding Teaching Award.
Through the G-TEAMS program, she was able to work directly with both elementary students and
teachers to develop innovative ways to teach mathematics. After G-TEAMS she continued to facilitate
math teacher circles. While in graduate school, Angélica was also very dedicated to outreach. Angélica
co-founded the University of Arizona’s AWM chapter. She was also privileged to twice return to the EDGE
program as a mentor. She organized and volunteered at numerous outreach events, e.g. Sonia
Kovalevsky Day, Calculus Workshop, etc.

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Today Angélica continues to support mathematics education through her work in the edtech sector, where
she contributes the development of K-12 digital products that provide personalized learning experiences
at scale. She focuses on gathering data from students and using that data to provide personalized
insights and recommendations to instructors regarding student learning.

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“Hispanic Heritage Month to me is a time to celebrate and get motivated. It is wonderful to celebrate
those that came before me, those that came alongside me, and the many more that will come after. It is a
good reminder that there is more work to be done. Con ganas, todo se puede!”

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