Dr. James P. Howard, II, is a distinguished mathematician, statistician, and an advocate for environmental conservation. His work spans various government agencies, including the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Executive Office of the President, and the United States Department of Homeland Security, where he has applied his expertise in data science and public policy to address complex challenges. Before these roles, he served as an internal consultant on scientific computing, enhancing the capabilities of national economic and security systems.
Born in 1979 in Dayton, Ohio, Dr. Howard embarked on an academic journey that led him to study mathematics at the University of Maryland, College Park, delve into environmental science at Johns Hopkins University, and explore public policy at the University of Baltimore. His pursuit of knowledge culminated in a doctorate in public policy from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, with a focus on the economic implications of the National Flood Insurance Program.
Throughout his career, Dr. Howard has remained at the intersection of technology, policy, and education. He has spearheaded research projects on cutting-edge topics like blockchain technology and public health, contributing significantly to both theoretical and applied fields. His development of the R package phonics underscores his commitment to advancing data analysis tools and methodologies.
In public service, Dr. Howard’s tenure on the Board of Appeals for Howard County, Maryland, showcased his dedication to responsible governance and community engagement. His contributions to the Maryland Defense Force and the Howard County Charter Review Commission further exemplify his commitment to public service and advocacy for independent and transparent governance processes.
A fervent educator, Dr. Howard has imparted his knowledge of mathematics and statistics at the University of Maryland Global Campus since 2010. His teaching portfolio also includes public affairs education at institutions such as the City University of New York and the University of New Mexico, reflecting his broad expertise and commitment to fostering informed citizenship.
Dr. Howard is a prolific author, with works including Teaching and Learning Mathematics Online, Handbook of Military and Defense Operations Research, Computational Methods for Numerical Analysis with R, and Socioeconomic Effects of the National Flood Insurance Program. His scholarly contributions have earned him fellowships with the British Computer Society, the Cybernetics Society, the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications, and the Royal Society of Arts. Additionally, he is a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
Married to Nina Basu, Dr. Howard is deeply integrated into his community in Maryland, where he actively participates in local governance and conservation efforts. An enthusiast of astronomy, film, music, and world history, he also enjoys hiking and amateur boxing, demonstrating a balance of intellectual pursuit and physical activity.
Dr. James P. Howard, II’s remarkable career and dedication to public service, education, and environmental conservation reflect his enduring commitment to making a positive impact on society and the planet. As the Count of Krigsvold and Baron of Matikonis, he continues to leverage his vast knowledge and experience for the greater good.