Jim Brewer was a founding member of the KU noon running group, later called "Mad Dogs and Englishmen," when the group began in the early 1970s. He was one of several members of the math department who were instrumental in getting the group going in those early days. Jim left KU in the early 1980s for a position with the math department at Florida Atlantic University but stayed in touch, returning occasionally for our annual run and picnic.

Jim was best at shorter distances, but his times included 2:59 marathon, 36:30 10K, 17:11 5K, 4:43 mile, and 55.4 for 440 yards. Jim also ran a 4:58 mile as part of a Math Department 10 x 1-mile relay team one year. You can find more info on his races, especially the Faculty Clearinghouse competitions, at the 1970s and 1980s tabs under the Races link.

More information about Jim, including reminiscences from his friends, can be found at this link. This is a new page, and I welcome anything you may have to add. --Dick Lipsey.

The announcement from Florida Atlantic University:

In Memoriam

Dr. James Brewer, a professor of mathematics at FAU for more 20 years, serving nine years as chair of the mathematics department, died on Sept. 23. He served on many important college and University committees during his tenure at FAU. After being diagnosed with cancer in 2005, Jim continued his teaching while undergoing treatments. The last meeting of his graduate seminar was held on Sept. 18. He slipped into a coma the following day. Graduate students and colleagues remember him as an inspiring teacher and an ideal collaborator. A weekend of talks by present and former colleagues and students was given in his honor in early May 2006. He is survived by his wife, Vivian Stockton-Brewer; children Debbie, Jill, Amy, James, David and Thomas; two brothers; one sister; and four grandchildren.

[And see info on James Brewer Scholarship Fund at bottom.]

Florida Atlantic University has a scholarship fund in the name of Jim Brewer:

Mathematical Sciences Foundation Funds

The Mathematical Sciences department has several funds designed to help promote our goals and mission: to increase enthusiasm for studies in mathematics through community events, departmental activities and scholarships.

James Brewer Scholarship Fund (SCI 960)

Jim Brewer (1942-2006) earned his Ph.D. in Mathematics in 1968 from Florida State University and joined FAU's Mathematics department in 1985 as a full professor. He served as chair of the department for nine years, beginning in 1986. During his tenure, the department initiated its Ph.D. program and doubled the size of the faculty. He was an inspirational professor with a devotion to his students and their success that never wavered. He had the ability to connect with his students and inspire a love of learning in them. He co-authored, "Emmy Noether: A Tribute to her Life and Work," as well as several other books, including a textbook for the "Mathematics for Liberal Arts" courses offered by the department. Jim died while still on the faculty in 2006.

For information or to make a tax-deductible contribution:
Please indicate the fund you wish to contribute to on your check, make your check payable to: FAU Foundation
and mail to:

Emily Ann Cimillo, Budget Manager
Department of Mathematical Sciences, SE 218
Florida Atlantic University
777 Glades Road
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Phone: 561-297-3342
E-mail: ecimillo@fau.edu

Credit card donations can also be made online through our FAU Foundation webpage and selecting "Mathematical Sciences Department" from the drop down list under "Designations."