Malgorzata Dubiel, a senior lecturer of mathematics and Canadian math education pioneer, is the recipient of a 2011 YWCA Women of Distinction Award.

Dubiel, recognized in the education, training and development category, is cited for her 40 years of experience working to improve math education in Canada.

Dubiel’s community outreach to students of all ages includes math camps, conferences and other programs promoting gender-sensitive math education.

Helping student overcome “math anxiety” has been a key focus, as Dubiel strives to help elementary school teachers and children change misconceptions about math typically formed at an early age.

The Coquitlam resident and native of Poland uses popular media characters (such as Homer Simpson) and colourful props to illustrate and demystify complex math concepts. It’s an approach that often turns students who fear math into math masters.

Her contributions have encouraged many young women to engage with mathematics, challenge their perceptions and even consider careers in a field where women continue to be under-represented.

Dubiel, one of 11 YWCA award recipients, has previously been recognized with a 3M National Teaching Fellowship, the SFU Excellence in Teaching Award and the Pacific Institute for the Mathematical Sciences Education Prize.