Richard Rusczyk

Richard Rusczyk is a prominent figure in mathematics education, best known as the founder of the Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) and the Art of Problem Solving Initiative (AoPSI). He established AoPS in 2003 to provide interactive educational opportunities for enthusiastic math students and has authored several influential textbooks in the field, including works on algebra, geometry, and precalculus.124

Rusczyk's background includes notable achievements in mathematics competitions; he was a USA Mathematical Olympiad winner in 1989 and participated in the Math Olympiad Summer Program three times. He also served as the Director of the USA Mathematical Talent Search and co-founded the Mandelbrot Competition, which promotes mathematical problem-solving among students.124

In addition to his work with AoPS, Rusczyk founded the Art of Problem Solving Initiative, which oversees programs like Bridge to Enter Advanced Mathematics (BEAM). This initiative aims to support high-potential students from underserved communities in New York City and Los Angeles.35 Rusczyk graduated from Princeton University in 1993 and worked as a bond trader before fully committing to education.12

His contributions to mathematics education have been recognized with awards such as the Paul Erdös Award from the World Federation of National Mathematics Competitions in 2014.14 As a board member of AoPSI, Rusczyk continues to influence and enhance math education for diverse student populations.