Steele Prize
Overview
The Steele Prize is a prestigious award given annually by the American Mathematical Society (AMS) to celebrate significant contributions to the field of mathematics. The award was established in 1970 and is named after George David Birkhoff, William Fogg Osgood, and William Caspar Graustein, three influential mathematicians who made substantial contributions to their respective fields of study.
History
The Steele Prize was first awarded in 1970, and since then, it has been given annually by the AMS. The award was named in honor of three mathematicians: George David Birkhoff, William Fogg Osgood, and William Caspar Graustein. These three individuals were chosen because of their significant contributions to the field of mathematics, both in terms of research and education.
Categories
The Steele Prize is awarded in three categories: Lifetime Achievement, Mathematical Exposition, and Seminal Contribution to Research.
Lifetime Achievement
The Lifetime Achievement category of the Steele Prize is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of mathematics over the course of their careers. This award is not limited to research contributions; it also recognizes excellence in teaching, mentoring, and service to the mathematics community.
Mathematical Exposition
The Mathematical Exposition category of the Steele Prize is awarded to individuals or groups who have made outstanding contributions to the communication of mathematics. This can include textbooks, research papers, and public lectures that have had a significant impact on the field.
Seminal Contribution to Research
The Seminal Contribution to Research category of the Steele Prize is awarded to individuals or groups who have made groundbreaking contributions to mathematical research. This award recognizes work that has opened up new areas of study, resolved longstanding problems, or provided new and powerful methods for solving problems.
Nomination and Selection Process
The nomination process for the Steele Prize is open to all members of the AMS. Nominations are reviewed by the Steele Prize Selection Committee, which is composed of distinguished members of the mathematical community. The committee evaluates the nominations based on the significance of the contributions made by the nominees in their respective categories.
Notable Recipients
Over the years, many distinguished mathematicians have received the Steele Prize. Some of the notable recipients include John Milnor, who received the prize for his seminal contributions to differential topology, and Andrew Wiles, who was awarded the prize for his proof of Fermat's Last Theorem.
Impact
The Steele Prize has had a significant impact on the field of mathematics. It has recognized and celebrated the work of many mathematicians, and in doing so, it has helped to inspire future generations of mathematicians. The prize also serves to highlight the importance of mathematics in society and to promote the continued growth and development of the field.