An award given by the Virginia Council of Mathematics Specialists that honors mathematics education leaders has been named after IU School of Education Dean Robert Berry.
The Robert Q. Berry, III, Equity Award honors mathematics education leaders who catalyze change by centering their leadership on equity. Inspired by the legacy of Dean Berry, this award recognizes those who empower historically and presently marginalized students, foster belonging, and reimagine math classrooms as spaces of brilliance and opportunity.
“I am genuinely humbled to see the VACMS Equity Award carry my name, and I’m grateful for the community that continues to bring its purpose to life,” Berry said. “Under Dr. Holly Tate’s steady and thoughtful leadership, VACMS has fostered a space where equity isn’t just an idea we talk about. It’s work we do together. That spirit is beautifully reflected in this year’s awardee, Payal Herendeen. Payal’s commitment to supporting teachers and expanding opportunities for all students in Fairfax is the kind of everyday, hands-on equity work that moves our field forward. I’m proud to celebrate Payal and honored to stand alongside colleagues who are shaping mathematics education with such care and heart.”
For me, this award is a call to action, reinforcing my commitment to carrying forward Dr. Berry's legacy by rehumanizing mathematics and ensuring every student, regardless of background, sees themselves as a mathematician.
Inaugural award winner Payal Herendeen
When Herendeen, an elementary math, STEAM and computer science resource teacher at Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia, was announced by VACMS as the award winner, the organization noted, “Payal’s reflective leadership, commitment to breaking down barriers, and dedication to students’ voices and experiences make her an inspiring champion for equity in mathematics education.”
“The significance of receiving an award bearing Dr. Robert Berry’s name is particularly meaningful. His legacy—a tireless dedication to creating systems and spaces where everyone has an authentic opportunity to thrive—serves as both a guidepost and an inspiration,” said Herendeen. “In my current role, I have the unique opportunity to coach administrators, school leaders, and teachers to transform student efficacy around mathematics and computer science. I leverage this position to translate my awareness of identity and belonging into concrete actions, ensuring that regardless of a student's label, immigrant status, or disability, we build toward deeper mathematical learning goals. For me, this award is a call to action, reinforcing my commitment to carrying forward Dr. Berry's legacy by rehumanizing mathematics and ensuring every student, regardless of background, sees themselves as a mathematician.”
VACMS President Holly Tate said Berry’s presence and influence on Virginia educators is both longstanding and deeply woven into the statewide mathematics communities.
“When considering the inaugural equity award, it was immediately clear that it should bear his name. For more than a decade, Dr. Berry has supported the Virginia Council of Mathematics Specialists in countless capacities, consistently challenging us to understand and honor students’ lived experiences, to enact equitable teaching practices, and to leverage mathematics as a vehicle for social justice. This award, like Dr. Berry’s legacy, celebrates a Virginia leader who actively fosters inclusive, student-centered environments and thoughtfully connects equity to both instructional practice and mathematics leadership,” Tate said.