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2007 Distinguished Mathematics Alumna

04-06-2007

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The College of Science bestowed Distinguished Alumni status to ten science alumni on April 6, 2007. Dr. Barbara Kile was the 2007 Distinguished Mathematics Alumna.

Barbara Kile graduated from Purdue in 1963 with a B.S. in mathematics with highest honors. She subsequently earned an M.S. from the University of Illinois and a D.A. in mathematics from Carnegie Mellon."

Purdue provided the nurturing environment where I developed a love for mathematics and problem-solving and gained confidence in my ability to pursue a technical career," recalled Kile. "Professor Meyer Jerison is the person I remember best in this regard."

For over 25 years, Kile used mathematical tools to address real-world issues in various industry and government positions. After working as an analyst for ANSER and R&D Associates (now Logicon) in Arlington, VA, she was employed by the Defense Intelligence Agency for several years before moving to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, where she was Division Director of Strategic & Information Programs."

I have had the exciting experience of being a Soviet-Warsaw Pact intelligence analyst and manager at the height of the Cold War and was involved as an analyst and manager in some of the major U.S. weapon system decisions, including the B-2 bomber and the Trident submarine force," said Kile. "

My mathematics degree, with a physics minor, at Purdue prepared me well for graduate school and all of the career positions I have held."

Currently, Dr. Kile is an adjunct associate professor of mathematics at the Northern Virginia Community College."I've often seized the opportunity to teach mathematics, even when my position involved mathematics only indirectly," said Kile.

"Purdue laid the foundation for the two constants that have marked all phases of my life--a rigorous, analytic approach to problem solving and a dedication to physical fitness and participation in competitive sports. When I look back at all of the good things that I have enjoyed over my career and think about how I want to give back, Purdue rises to the top of the list."

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