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Dean Daniel Clay recognizes and thanks Bob and Barbara McFarland for their generous gift to fund the Dr. Lois Knowles Math Education Scholarship. Bob McFarland is
Dr. Knowles' nephew.
On Nov. 11, 2011, the University of Missouri College of Education announced a significant gift to establish the Dr. Lois Knowles Math Education Scholarship in honor of Lois Knowles, a national leader in mathematics education who taught at the MU College of Education for nearly 40 years. She was the first female full professor in the MU College of Education and she received the MU Distinguished Faculty Award in 1968.
“My aunt, Lois Knowles, not only changed the course of my family’s life, but the lives of her students and everyone she came into contact with,” said Bob McFarland, Knowles’ nephew. “In the depth of the Depression, my mother was left to raise three young children alone when her husband left home and never returned. Aunt Lois bought us a nice home and gave us financial stability when our future was the darkest,” said McFarland.
“My wife, Barbara, and I are pleased to establish this scholarship in recognition of Lois’ lifelong dedication to teaching and learning, and her generous and compassionate spirit,” said McFarland. The McFarland’s also funded the Dr. Lois Knowles Endowed Faculty Fellowship in Math Education.
Knowles earned a bachelor’s degree in education, master of arts and doctor of education from MU. She taught elementary education for three years before joining the MU College of Education faculty in 1934 where she remained until she retired in 1971.
Knowles was a national leader in mathematics education and an accomplished author of mathematics education textbooks. She co-authored “Seeing Through Arithmetic” and conducted math workshops for teachers across the country. In addition, she held numerous leadership positions at the university and was a strong supporter of equality for women in higher education.
Ludie Dickeson, an MU College of Education alumna, fondly remembers Knowles as a teacher and a mentor. “She was always kind and encouraging to students,” said Dickeson. “I can remember education majors telling others to be sure to take a class from Dr. Knowles. Her influence inspired many to continue their career path in education. And her wisdom and validation of my love for teaching encouraged me to set high standards for myself and my students.”
“The MU College of Education is grateful for the ongoing support from Bob and Barbara McFarland in honor of Dr. Knowles,” said Dr. Daniel Clay, dean of the MU College of Education. “Dr. Knowles made many important and lasting contributions in the field of math education and this scholarship helps aspiring math education teachers carry on her legacy.”
Read more at: http://www.columbiamissourian.com/stories/2011/11/11/family-influential-math-educator-lois-knowles-announces-scholarship/