National Math Stars Company Profile

Background

National Math Stars is a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing mathematically exceptional students from diverse backgrounds. Established in 2023, the organization offers a comprehensive, fully funded ten-year program that supports students from third grade through high school graduation. The program's mission is to inspire a love for mathematics and provide the necessary resources for students to reach the frontiers of math, science, and technology.

Key Strategic Focus

National Math Stars focuses on:

Mathematics Development: Offering advanced math courses, weekly mentoring, and STEM summer experiences tailored to each student's needs.

Financial Support: Providing annual budgets for STEM enrichment opportunities and essential technology resources.

Family Advising: Assigning dedicated advisors to assist families in navigating educational pathways and advocating for students' needs.

Supportive Community: Building a network through events, forums, and resources to foster a sense of belonging among students and their families.

Financials and Funding

As of 2023, National Math Stars has raised approximately $16.5 million to support its initiatives. The funds are allocated to:

Program Development: Enhancing curriculum and expanding program offerings.

Student Support: Covering costs for courses, mentoring, and enrichment activities.

Operational Expenses: Ensuring efficient program delivery and organizational growth.

Pipeline Development

The organization's primary initiative is its ten-year program, which includes:

Advanced Math Courses: Enrollment in courses through partners like Art of Problem Solving.

Weekly Math Mentoring: Individual or collaborative sessions focusing on problem-solving and concept exploration.

STEM Summer Experiences: Fully funded programs connecting students with peers and faculty for in-depth STEM exploration.

Flexible Pathways: Tailored options such as research in mathematics or a focus on computer science, aligning with students' interests.

Technological Platform and Innovation

National Math Stars leverages:

Proprietary Technologies: Collaborations with partners to provide advanced online learning platforms.

Scientific Methodologies: Utilizing evidence-based teaching methods to enhance mathematical understanding.

AI-Driven Capabilities: Implementing adaptive learning technologies to personalize educational experiences.

Leadership Team

Ilana Walder-Biesanz: Founder and CEO – Former management consultant at Bain & Company and Product Manager at Yahoo!. Holds degrees from Olin College, Cambridge, and Stanford.

Ambika Dani: Head of Programs – Experienced mathematics educator and founder of Promesa Academy. Holds degrees from Columbia University.

Alex Lochoff: Head of Partnerships – Former 5th-grade STEM teacher and curriculum developer at Edpuzzle. Holds a BA from Dartmouth College.

Teresa Lambe: Head of Operations – Over two decades of teaching experience and former educational technology startup professional. Holds degrees from UNC Chapel Hill and UNC Wilmington.

Leadership Changes

As of June 2025, there have been no significant changes or appointments within the leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The educational enrichment sector, particularly in mathematics, is experiencing growth due to increased emphasis on STEM education. Programs targeting mathematically gifted students are expanding to meet demand.

Competitor Analysis

Mathnasium: Offers supplemental math instruction through a proprietary method, operating over 1,000 centers globally.

MathCounts: Provides extracurricular math programs for middle school students, including competitions and clubs.

Noetic Learning Math Contest: Hosts biannual problem-solving competitions for elementary and middle school students.

Harvard-MIT Mathematics Tournament (HMMT): Organizes semiannual high school math competitions, emphasizing problem-solving skills.

Math League: Conducts math competitions for students in grades 4-12 across the U.S. and Canada.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

National Math Stars collaborates with:

Art of Problem Solving (AoPS): Providing advanced math courses and resources.

Educational Institutions: Partnering with schools and districts to identify and support mathematically talented students.

Operational Insights

National Math Stars differentiates itself by offering a long-term, personalized program that integrates academic support, financial assistance, and community building. This holistic approach addresses barriers faced by mathematically gifted students from diverse backgrounds.