Julius Esunge, assistant professor of mathematics at the University of Mary Washington, has been selected to receive a prestigious 2015-2016 Fulbright U.S. Scholar grant. Esunge will teach and conduct research at the University of Buea in the Republic of Cameroon beginning in the spring of 2016.

The Fulbright Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, is the U.S. government's flagship international exchange program.

The scholarship program gives professors a unique opportunity as ambassadors of American higher education, pursuing research and teaching opportunities around the world.

An expert in stochastic analysis, Esunge blends mathematics and statistics to understand and solve real-world problems.

Hence as part of his Fulbright grant, Esunge will return to the place of his undergraduate studies - the University of Buea - to teach two semesters of probability and actuarial mathematics and lead a weekly graduate seminar in stochastic analysis. He will also construct and compare predictive models for healthcare costs.

"The opportunity to return to the University of Buea and actively mentor a new generation of students is priceless," said Esunge, who joined the UMW mathematics department in 2009. "I have the opportunity to map a path for the current students and motivate them through passionate teaching."

Esunge received a bachelor's degree from the University of Buea, a master's degree from Lehigh University and a master's degree and doctorate's degree from Louisiana State University.

"Dr. Esunge is a very popular and effective teacher, and I know he will have a tremendous impact at the University of Buea," said Jonathan Levin, provost at UMW. "It is a special pleasure to see him bring his talent and expertise to his own alma mater in Cameroon."