Taylor High School Student Vivian Liu Wins International Essay Contest Honoring Women in Mathematics
A Taylor High School student is earning international recognition for her ability to weave storytelling and science into a compelling essay that highlights the journey of a woman in mathematics. Vivian Liu, a standout student in Katy ISD, has been named Grand Prize Winner of the 2025 Student Essay Contest held by the Association for Women in Mathematics (AWM)—a global organization that promotes gender equity in the mathematical sciences.
Liu’s winning submission, titled “Threads of Persistence: Weaving Life and Math Together,” stood out among more than 100 entries submitted by secondary and collegiate students worldwide. Her profile focused on Dr. Betul Orcan-Ekmekci, a professor at Rice University whose research explores how mathematical models can help us understand and predict weather patterns.
“I was immediately drawn to the idea of blending storytelling with mathematics,” Liu explained. “I chose to interview Dr. Orcan-Ekmekci because of her inspiring journey as a Turkish mathematician and her work promoting math education. Her story resonated deeply with me, especially her perseverance and commitment to empowering the next generation of mathematicians."
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A Story of Representation and Resilience
In capturing Orcan-Ekmekci’s story, Liu not only spotlighted a leader in applied mathematics but also reflected on her own aspirations. She hopes to pursue a career in mathematics, blending research, education, and problem-solving to drive impact—and inspire others along the way.
“Like Dr. Orcan-Ekmekci, I hope I can be a role model for others interested in math,” said Liu.
Her achievement aligns with the broader mission of the Association for Women in Mathematics, which since 1971 has worked to promote women and girls in STEM, particularly in math. The AWM—now with over 3,500 members worldwide—runs programs to increase visibility, mentorship, and equity in academia, industry, and government. The organization continues to push for institutional change and inclusivity, especially in spaces where women remain underrepresented at the highest levels of mathematical research and leadership.
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Inspiring the Next Generation in STEM
Vivian Liu’s win not only celebrates academic excellence—it highlights the power of representation and storytelling in the STEM world. Her work echoes AWM’s core belief that diverse voices and experiences are essential to solving complex global problems.
As the Katy ISD community cheers on one of its own, Liu’s success serves as a reminder that the future of math isn’t just in formulas—it’s in the stories we tell, the voices we uplift, and the connections we create.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
