‘Mathemagician’ kicks off a Year of Math Magic at WSCC

Dr. Arthur Benjamin

VICTORY TOWNSHIP — Dr. Arthur Benjamin, a highly-credentialed mathematician who is also a masterfully-skilled magician, will deliver a unique presentation entitled “Mathemagics” on Thurs., Sept. 24, at 7:30 p.m. in West Shore Community College’s Center Stage Theater.

This event kicks off a year-long program series designed to help students and members of the community encounter the delightful, playful side of mathematics. Dr. Benjamin’s entertaining presentation is open to the public, and admission is free.

“Too many students come to college apprehensive about math or feel uncomfortable working in that subject, hindering their success,” says Academic Projects Team chair Seán Henne. “Consequently, the college’s Academic Projects Team is working to inspire students to think of math as something they not only can do well, but can even enjoy, and is designing a year of programming centered on a healthy appreciation for mathematics.”

Suitable for all audiences, Benjamin’s electrifying feats of mental math have astonished thousands of groups throughout the world.  Benjamin not only wows audiences with unforgettable entertainment, he even reveals most of his “mathemagic” secrets so that his audience can benefit practically from the show.

Henne adds, “This is one theatrical event that can make a dramatic difference for attendees, since so much everyday decision making and personal success revolves around our ability to do math.”

Benjamin’s educational accomplishments are impressive. He is a 1983 graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics. He continued his academic pursuits at Johns Hopkins University, ultimately completing work towards two graduate degrees. In 1985 and in 1989, Johns Hopkins awarded Benjamin a M.S.E. and a Ph.D. respectively.

Currently, Benjamin is a professor of mathematics at Harvey Mudd College, which is located in Claremont, California, and recognized as one of the nation’s premier institutions for educating scientists, mathematicians, and engineers.

Hailed as “America’s Best Math Whiz” by Reader’s Digest, Benjamin gained national popularity after a lecture he presented at the 2005 TED Conference became a YouTube sensation. Internationally recognized for his genius and integrity, Benjamin frequently receives invitations to appear on television.

His television experience includes guest appearances on NBC’s Today Show, expert commentary during various CNN broadcasts, and interviews on Comedy Central’s Colbert Report.

Benjamin’s dynamic personality, which is underscored by his commitment to education, positions him as a preferred guest for radio talk shows, most notably programs airing on National Public Radio (NPR). Additionally, Benjamin has been the focus of feature stories written for national newspapers and periodicals. His unique talents have been profiled by prestigious publications such as the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, USA Today, Scientific American, Discover Magazine, Omni Magazine, Esquire Magazine, People Magazine, Wired, and Reader’s Digest.

While the college is offering Benjamin’s high energy show to the public for free, tickets are required.  Three tickets per person are available online at the “Performing Series Arts” page of www.westshore.edu (click “Buy Tickets Now”), or can be obtained from the college bookstore by calling 231-843-5507.

More information can be found at by contacting Henne at 231-843-5859 or swhenne@westshore.edu.