Spelman Remembers Mathematics Professor Fred Bowers
The Spelman community mourns the loss of Fred Bowers, Ph.D, a beloved professor of mathematics who devoted 38 years to inspiring generations of students.
Legacy of Excellence and Compassion
Dr. Fred Bowers, of Atlanta, Georgia, a retired professor of mathematics at the College, died Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025.
Bowers made mathematics meaningful, alive and accessible to generations of Spelman students," said a colleague from the Department of Mathematics. "He is, and always will be, deeply loved by generations of students and colleagues."
Service Information
Wake | Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025
2 - 6 p.m.
Hines Funeral Home
595 Westlake Ave. N.W.
Atlanta, Georgia 30318
Funeral Service | Friday, Oct. 24, 2025
11 a.m.
Elizabeth Baptist Church
4245 Cascade Road
Atlanta, Georgia 30331
Interment | Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Cemetery
Westminster, South Carolina
Born in Seneca, South Carolina, Dr. Bowers graduated from Blue Ridge High School in 1966. He earned his bachelor's degree in mathematics with a minor in astronomy from Howard University in 1970, followed by a master's degree from Atlanta University in 1975. He completed his Ph.D. in higher educational administration at Illinois State University in 1980.
Throughout his career, Bowers taught at several institutions, including Illinois State University, Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University. But Spelman was his academic home. He joined the Department of Mathematics in 1983, and his presence shaped the department for nearly four decades.
Leadership and ServiceBowers' impact extended far beyond the classroom. He served as chair of the Mathematics Department from 1997 to 1999 and led as director of the Center for the Scientific Application of Mathematics. He co-chaired the college-wide Faculty Development Committee and organized major events, including the DIMACS Conference on the Mathematics of Medical Imaging.
Under his leadership, the department hosted a session of the EDGE Summer Program, which supports women pursuing graduate degrees in mathematics. He also mentored students in a United Negro College Fund research program for four consecutive summers.
Bowers directed three honors theses, and those students have gone on to extraordinary achievements:
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Dean Renée McDonald Hutchins, class of 1990, serves as dean of the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law
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Dr. Afi Davis-Harrington, class of 1993, co-founded a quantitative consulting firm in Washington, D.C.
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Dr. Jaclyn Branner Conner, class of 1998, serves as director of academic affairs at Emory University's Goizueta School of Business
Students flocked to Bowers' classes, often filling them beyond capacity. It was not uncommon to see students sitting on windowsills or on the floor, eager for the chance to learn from him.
"Dr. Bowers didn't just teach mathematics — he made it come alive," a colleague recalled. "He explained calculus with the fervor of a preacher, and many students will tell you they left his class whispering 'Amen' under their breath, moved by how he brought clarity, excitement and meaning to each lesson."
Bowers had a remarkable gift for remembering each student's name, hometown and even their high school. He constantly asked them, "What's next?" — always encouraging them to dream bigger, go further and lead boldly. He reminded them that Spelman women are leaders and that they, too, would one day find themselves called to lead.
A Model Colleague
As a colleague, Bowers was unwaveringly supportive. Known for his invariable good cheer and collegiality, he was among the first to volunteer when the department had a need. He never complained about his schedule, quietly took on overloads, over-enrolled his classes and mentored junior faculty.
"He was a steady, supportive presence for faculty — a mentor, a guide and a quiet example of what it means to serve with integrity," said a department colleague. "He held numerous leadership roles within the department and the college, always leading with thoughtfulness, energy and zeal."
An Enduring Legacy
Dr. Bowers' contributions to Spelman College and the Department of Mathematics are both immeasurable and enduring. His legacy lives on in every student he taught, every colleague he uplifted and every life he touched.
The Department of Mathematics honors Dr. Bowers for a life of purpose, brilliance, compassion and excellence. His memory will continue to inspire the Spelman community for generations to come.
The Spelman College community extends its deepest condolences to Dr. Bowers' family, friends and all who knew and loved him.