The mathematics faculty were very pleased with the quality of the theses that were submitted and completed this year.  They were not nearly as pleased with the unexpected difficulties put up by the library in accepting the theses' formatting. In short, mathematical researchers use highly-specialized word processing software, LaTex, which has slightly different formatting options than Microsoft Word.  Initially, the library said it would not accept the theses unless they were submitted as Word documents.  This was not acceptable to us from a professional standpoint.  In the end, a compromise was reached.  It is our hope a more permanent understanding of our unique formatting requirements can be worked out.

Whether on thesis defense or comprehensive examination, our students could improve in integrating background research with a more polished proof.  Thesis committees can mentor their students in this endeavor.  More preparation and instruction will be necessary to assist students sitting for comprehensive examinations in the same areas of integrating background information and a polished presentation of the proof.

The burdens imposed by the library staff have been dealt with.  A successful LaTeX template was developed by our faculty that satisfies the requirements of the library.  Thesis submissions should proceed smoothly from now on.

Plans for 2013-14 include:  improved (and more) office space for graduate students, standardized syllabi for core MS mathematics courses, and an evaluation of decreasing the number of comprehensive mathematics exams from three to two.