The Willard Hackerman Academy of Mathematics and Science was established in 2006 through a generous gift from Willard Hackerman, president and CEO of Whiting-Turner Contracting Co. The academy is housed within the Fisher College of Science and Mathematics on the campus of Towson University. Former NASA astronaut Donald A. Thomas, Ph.D., is director of the academy.

The goals of the Hackerman Academy are to attract more students into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) majors and to prepare teachers who will be energized to teach in area schools in these much needed discipline areas. Additionally this initiative will provide advanced training in math and science to existing teachers in the state of Maryland.

The academy’s mission is to excite young Maryland students about the wonders of science and mathematics, to encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and to energize and prepare teachers in these disciplines.