July 29, 2026
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Two Trine University faculty members recently participated in the biennial Actuarial Teaching Conference (ATC), held July 19-21 in Columbus, Ohio.
Michael Smith, assistant professor of mathematics at Trine, also moderated a roundtable discussion titled “Add Ons and Off Ramps,” focusing on support for students whose career goals might shift away from their major.
“Session topics included AI’s use and impact in the classroom and the actuarial field, the importance of research and experiential-based learning and how to ensure accessibility and rigor in a digital age,” he said. “My biggest takeaways were ideas about how to reconfigure and update our actuarial science major, including possible avenues for partnerships and research opportunities.”
Smith also served on the conference’s planning committee and participated in the Society of Actuaries’ first North American University Advisory Council (NAUAC) meeting following the end of the conference.
Steven Donovan, mathematics instructor and coordinator of undeclared recruitment and advising at Trine, attended sessions that covered students who have an interest in mathematics but little or no knowledge of actuarial science.
“I learned how I could better promote actuarial science to undeclared students who come to Trine visit days,” he said.
The ATC is sponsored by the Society of Actuaries (SOA) with the goal of allowing actuarial science educators to gather and share ideas.
When their son Parker received his diploma from Trine University President Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D., at this year’s May Commencement, it was a full-circle moment for Stephen and Brooke Pelletier.
Golfers and sponsors at Trine University’s 36th annual Alumni and Friends Golf Outing contributed a record amount for student scholarships, raising $115,000 at the Aug. 7 event.
It may sound like all fun and games, but two Trine University faculty members gave academic presentations during North America’s largest board gaming convention.