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Faculty
Ronald W. DeGray, Ph.D.
Associate Professor EmeritusM.A. Mathematics, University of Connecticut
Ph.D. Mathematics, Syracuse University
Ron’s interest in the study of mathematics began early in his life under the influence of his brother Allan Dickinson DeGray.
The University of Connecticut and Syracuse University encouraged Ron to continue studying pure mathematics in the area of probability theory. His Ph.D. dissertation directed by Peter Frank concerned random number generators. This led to a teaching career during which he taught mostly undergraduate courses in analysis.
At the University of Saint Joseph (formerly Saint Joseph College) he served as Chair of the Department of Mathematical Science and was in charge of academic computing. He was largely responsible for the University’s joining BITNET at its inception. BITNET preceded The Internet enabling communications between USJ and the world. His curricular work now includes systems thinking, complex systems, interactive course syllabi with Internet based delivery and content.
Since retiring, his academic interests turned to transportation engineering studies at the University of Connecticut. His focus is on multi-modal land based transportation systems i.e. pedestrian, bicycling and public transportation via trams, trolleys, light rail, passenger rail with connections to sea and air transportation systems. Being involved with academic, community and not-for-profit organizations is essential.
He is emeritus member of the professional organizations – American Mathematical Society, and the Mathematics Association of America and belongs to the Congress of New Urbanism, and the New England Complex Systems Institute.
His community service for not-for-profit organizations includes, Treasurer of the Buckingham Cemetery Association and Bike Walk Glastonbury, He is also a member of Bike Walk Connecticut, and is a supporter of the Farmington Valley Trails Council, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, the East Coast Greenway Alliance. the Sierra Club, The Humane Society of Connecticut, Our Companions Animal Rescue, The CornellLab of Ornithology and its Elephant Listening Project, The Jane Goodall Institute, The Connecticut Audubon Society, Nonhuman Rights Project, Glastonbury Partners in Planting, and the Connecticut Public Broadcasting Network (cpbn).