Meet Maria Hutchings - Math - The University of Utah

Maria Hutchings joined the Department of Mathematics in the fall of 2025 as a Program Assistant.

Where did you work before joining the Math Department?

Before joining the Math Department, I worked at Rowland Hall (Upper School) as an Administrative Professional. Assisting faculty was the main priority, but I did everything from being an advisor for a dozen students to planning and executing the graduation ceremony to scheduling classes and budget planning.

What are your duties in this position?

As the first person visitors see in the Math Department office, I welcome and assist students, visitors, and faculty. I help department members with equipment checkout, managing mail and packages, maintenance requests, and room scheduling. I also take care of travel and purchase reimbursements, will help you with the printers and copiers, and don't forget department tea!

What do you enjoy most about working in the Math Department?

As a staff member, I enjoy knowing that the work I do behind the scenes helps faculty teach effectively and helps students navigate their academic paths more smoothly. By working in the math department admin office and attending to faculty needs, I like getting to contribute to the education of future generations of incredible mathematical minds!

What was your undergraduate degree?

I have a bachelor's degree in social work from the University of Utah.

What are three things you like to do in your spare time?

I like collecting and nurturing plants of all sorts and have many at home that I tend to and yes, talk to! If you find me in my free time at home, I am normally fussing over my plants. I like to be by the water, in the summer, whether it be a river, lake or even just the pool. Being in or near the water is definitely my go-to fun in the sun time. I very much enjoy doing yoga and try to get to a class at least once a week.

What else would it be fun for us to know about you?

My favorite holiday is Halloween and my favorite season is fall. My favorite football team is the Packers, but my favorite sport to watch is basketball. I was born and raised in Salt Lake City, but I've never been skiing. If I haven't met you yet, feel free to stop by the front desk and say hello!