Eva Thanheiser

About Eva Thanheiser

I’m a Professor of Mathematics Education at Portland State University, where I also serve as Department Chair. For over 16 years, I’ve been dedicated to transforming how we teach and think about mathematics—centering sense-making, real-world relevance, and anti-bias pedagogy.My work focuses on helping both future and current teachers move beyond abstract procedures and toward mathematics that reflects students’ lives and identities. I specialize in K–12 math education, curriculum design, and task development that connects math to the real world—whether it’s through community data, identity projects, or social justice applications.I co-authored a middle school textbook on Teaching Math for Social Justice and helped lead a virtual special issue of the Journal of Mathematical Behavior on “Mathematics that Underpins Social Issues.” These projects reflect my broader mission: using mathematics as a tool for equity, understanding, and change.In addition to my university role, I serve on editorial boards and participate actively in national organizations, including AMTE and NCTM. I hold a Ph.D. in Mathematics Education from San Diego State University and continue to collaborate with educators across the country to make math more meaningful, inclusive, and empowering.

Experience

1. Department Chair

   Portland State University

   Sep 2024 — Present · Portland, OR, US

   Provide strategic leadership and administrative oversight for a diverse academic department serving over students and 35 full-time faculty members• Champion inclusive hiring practices, transparent governance, and equitable faculty development• Lead departmental initiatives around curriculum reform, student success, and data-informed decision-making• Coordinate scheduling, budgeting, and personnel evaluations while maintaining alignment with institutional goals• Facilitate cross-departmental collaboration to integrate anti-oppressive practices and support community-engaged scholarship• Represent the department in college and university-wide leadership groups• Support grant development, interdisciplinary projects, and innovative course pathways• Promote a culture of equity, trust, and continuous improvement across teaching, research, and service

Education

• San Diego State University

  Ph.D., Mathematics Education

  1998 — 2005

• UC San Diego

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Mathematics Education

• San Diego State University

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Mathematics Education

• University of California, San Diego

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD, Mathematics Education

• The University of Kansas

  Master's degree, Mathematics

Skills

• University Teaching
• Curriculum Development
• Higher Education
• Teaching
• Curriculum Design