Leah Frauendienst, assistant chair of mathematics/associate professor of mathematics, began her journey here as a Vol State student. After earning her master’s degree in mathematics, Frauendienst returned to Vol State, excited to give back to the establishment that shaped her higher education experience. “Vol State is where I began my higher education journey and where my career took shape, and it’s a privilege to now help students create their own paths to success,” said Frauendienst. Now on her 11th year as a math faculty member, she has been invited to join the 2026 Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) Faculty Innovation Fellowship.
This TBR fellowship requires faculty to engage in a year-long research project that aids in the development of a research-informed student success initiative. TBR aims to strengthen the network of faculty leaders who show dedication to data-informed solutions to problems of practice.
Dean Talbott stated, “Leah Frauendienst’s dedication to student success at Vol State proves evident every day! She not only provides quality instruction in her classroom, but she also works tirelessly on innovative initiatives to improve the success of all students enrolled in math courses at Vol State.”
Frauendienst has earned her spot with the Vol State Math Pathways Project. She and her colleagues noticed a lack of student success in learning support as well as confusion regarding which math pathway bests fits what major. To address this problem, the group developed a new general education math course that provides content in statistics and algebra to better help students succeed as they move forward. “This has truly been a campus-wide collaboration, and I am deeply grateful to work alongside colleagues who embrace innovation, contribute thoughtful ideas, and remain focused on what matters most – helping our students succeed,” said Frauendienst. This project is not only a career milestone for those involved, but also a win for students who call Vol State home.
