Daniel Zaharopol

Daniel Zaharopol is the Chief Executive Officer of Art of Problem Solving Initiative, Inc. He is a prominent figure in the field of mathematics education and is also the founder of Bridge to Enter Advanced Mathematics (BEAM), a nonprofit organization aimed at providing pathways for underserved students to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields.

Background and Education

Zaharopol has a strong academic background in mathematics. He has dedicated much of his career to enhancing math education, particularly for students from low-income and historically marginalized communities. His initiatives focus on creating enriching educational experiences that go beyond traditional school curricula, aiming to foster deeper mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills among students.12

Contributions to Education

Under his leadership, BEAM has developed programs that support students from sixth grade through college by providing intellectual, emotional, and financial resources. These programs include summer sessions designed to introduce intensive mathematical concepts and life skills necessary for academic success. Zaharopol emphasizes the importance of not only academic content but also essential life skills, such as study techniques and professional communication.1

Leadership Roles

In addition to his role at Art of Problem Solving Initiative, Zaharopol has served as Chair of the MIT Educational Studies Program and has directed outreach programs that have impacted thousands of middle and high school students. His work has involved managing significant budgets and developing strategies to enhance educational access for diverse student populations.23

Through his efforts, Zaharopol continues to advocate for innovative approaches to math education, striving to make STEM fields more accessible and inclusive for all students.