Whether guiding non-STEM majors through the golden ratio or mentoring a small reading group on advanced mathematics, Betul Orcan-Ekmekci brings the same philosophy: meet students where they are, then help them grow in knowledge, confidence and curiosity.
An associate teaching professor of mathematics and 2024 recipient of Rice’s top teaching award, Orcan-Ekmekci leads the Directed Reading Program, where undergraduates take their first structured step into research. In small groups guided by graduate student and postdoc mentors, students explore advanced topics and build the habits of mathematical inquiry.
Her classroom teaching reflects the same values. In courses for majors and non-majors alike, she emphasizes creative exploration, interactive learning and the patience to move through challenges with persistence. In The Art of Math, non-STEM majors uncover mathematical patterns in nature and express their understanding through art, music and collaborative projects.
Across every course and program, Orcan-Ekmekci creates opportunities for students to enter mathematics with curiosity and leave with confidence.
