- William Chauvenet
William Chauvenet (1820 – 1870) was an early American educator. A professor of mathematics, astronomy, navigation, and surveying, he was always known and well-liked among students and faculty.
Education
In 1840, he graduated from
Yale University , and was a member of Yale'sSkull and Bones .Academic career
United States Navy
In 1841 he was appointed a professor of mathematics in the
United States Navy , and for a while served on "Mississippi". A year later, he was appointed to the chair of mathematics at the naval asylum inPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania . He was instrumental in the founding of theUnited States Naval Academy atAnnapolis, Maryland .During his time at the Naval Academy, he was offered two professorships at his alma mater: in 1855, the professorship of mathematics; and in 1859, the professorship of astronomy and
natural philosophy at Yale. He declined both.Washington University
In 1859, he was elected to the chair of mathematics at Washington University in
St. Louis, Missouri . At Washington University, he quickly gained fame and the good will of his colleagues. A plaque dedicated to him was later engraved on the façade of Ridgley Library at Washington University.In 1862, he was elected Chancellor of the university despite opposition from several members of the board of trustees, largely because of the vocal recommendation of his old friend, fellow bonesman, and then-chancellor
Joseph Gibson Hoyt .Honors
The
Chauvenet Prize of theMathematical Association of America is named in his honor. It is awarded yearly for an article exhibiting excellence in expository writing on a mathematical topic. Chauvenet Hall at the US Naval Academy is named in his honor.External links
* [http://chancellorsroom.wustl.edu/chauvenet.htm Biographical Entry] at Washington University in Saint Louis
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