HOUSTON - The San Jacinto College South mathematics department recently hosted Pi Day, an activity held every spring semester to celebrate the number pi. With a value of approximately 3.14, pi was discovered by the ancient Greeks and defines the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter.

San Jacinto College students Jennifer Valverde, of Pearland, and Shannel Hodges, of League City, couldn’t decide what flavor of pie they wanted during Pi Day.

For the last ten years, San Jacinto College South math faculty have served free slices of pie and coffee to students on Pi Day in an effort to spark an interest in mathematics.  This year, students also discussed course options with math faculty and could pick up information concerning summer courses.

The mathematics department on the South campus strives to provide its students with an understanding of the concepts of mathematics, for academic coursework as well as application in everyday living.  "One of our main goals is to assist students in developing critical thinking skills necessary for success in their personal and professional life," said Sandra McCurdy, San Jacinto College South campus math professor. "Another goal is to make our students aware of math courses that open up choices for a career path."

For more information on San Jacinto College and it's math department call 281-998-6150 or visit http://www.sanjac.edu/.