Dr. Dana Paquin is the founder and lead instructor of the Paquin Institute of Mathematics (PiMath). She earned her Ph.D. in Mathematics from Stanford University in 2007 and is a Professor of Mathematics at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. She currently serves as Senior Mathematics Instructor and Director of Mathematics Curriculum at Stanford University Online High School, where she designs curriculum and teaches proof-based courses and research seminars for highly talented students from around the world.

Dr. Paquin’s academic work spans both pure and applied mathematics, including geometric number theory, combinatorics, graph theory, mathematical biology, and mathematical finance. She has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and has supervised over one hundred undergraduate and graduate research projects. A defining feature of her work is close collaboration with students, many of whom have gone on to publish research, present at conferences, and pursue advanced study in mathematics and related fields.

In addition to her university teaching, Dr. Paquin has extensive experience in mathematics enrichment and outreach for advanced secondary students. She is a former Director of the Stanford Math Circle and has served as an instructor with Art of Problem Solving, teaching advanced problem-solving and proof-based courses. She has also developed and taught summer mathematics programs at Stanford University, including courses and enrichment offerings through SUMaC, EPGY, and Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies, with a particular focus on number theory, mathematical reasoning, and Olympiad-style problem solving.

Through PiMath, Dr. Paquin brings together the best elements of math circles, advanced problem-solving seminars, and research mentorship in a supportive and intellectually vibrant environment. Her teaching emphasizes proof, discovery, and mathematical communication, with the goal of helping students develop confidence, depth of understanding, and a lasting love for mathematics.