A Math Fun Day participant views models of molecules.

Florida State University’s Department of Mathematics conducted a highly successful outreach event on Oct. 12 that drew hundreds of K-12 students and their parents from the Tallahassee area.

Math Fun Day featured games, demonstrations and presentations aimed at elementary, middle and high school students, educators and parents. The activities illustrated the utility, pervasiveness and importance of mathematics.

"There was great participation by the Tallahassee community for this mathematics outreach event," said Sam Huckaba, a professor of mathematics and dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. "The faculty, students, and staff of the the mathematics department did a fantastic job of promoting interesting and enjoyable activities near the world of FSU mathematics. There was also a stellar assist from Harry Kroto, who contributed his time and talents for a buckyball session."

Kicking off the day was the math department's Second Annual High School Mathematics Contest, with one test for ninth- and 10^th-graders and another for 11^th- and 12^th-graders. The three-hour written exam tested problem-solving skills and mathematical ingenuity.

"I am thrilled that our inaugural Math Fun Day was so successful," said Xiaoming Wang, chairman of the math department. "Our faculty, staff and student volunteers represented us superbly, and I am extremely proud of them."

Additional photos from Math Fun Day appear below.

Young participants build a model during Math Fun Day.