Stephen Gagola Jr., a mathematician, retired professor, and lifelong learner, has transformed his passion for abstract mathematical concepts into tangible creations at Kent State University’s Design Innovation (DI) Hub. His innovative project, rooted in Latin cubes, demonstrates how the DI Hub empowers members to turn intellectual ideas into physical realities.
From Classroom to Creative Freedom
Having taught mathematics at Kent State University for over 40 years, Stephen’s retirement granted him the time and freedom to pursue long-held ideas. "Now I don’t have any of those [teaching] duties anymore. So that kind of freed me up," Stephen shares. This newfound liberty led him to explore advanced mathematical concepts, including the construction of Latin squares and cubes, and ultimately to the DI Hub.
Stephen’s introduction to the DI Hub came through its advanced equipment. "I became more interested in [the DI Hub] when I learned that it had a laser cutter because that’s the tool that I needed... but I didn’t know how to use the actual machine," he recalls.
Bringing Abstract Math to Life
Stephen’s project involves Latin cubes—three-dimensional analogs of Latin squares—and their intricate mathematical properties. "It’s really three Latin cubes embedded inside of each other that are intricately involved with each other," he explains. These cubes consist of 4x4x4 grids where each layer represents a Latin square based on unique properties such as color and orientation.
This journey began years ago with an article in the journal Geombinatorics that featured an artistic take on Latin squares using bunny rabbit heads. Intrigued, Stephen delved deeper into the concept. "When I retired, I got more involved," he says. Inspired by questions posed in the article and his mathematical curiosity, he progressed from Latin squares to the more complex challenge of Latin cubes.
With assistance from DI Hub staff, Stephen used 3D printing to create prototypes. "I collaborated with Harsha... I told him these holes have to be made bigger... but I’m glad that the physical construction was completed because now I could look at it as an object," he notes. This tactile aspect of his work allowed Stephen to uncover new mathematical insights and share his creations with others, including his grandchildren. “What you’re getting is something that nobody in the whole world has. You can’t buy it in the store,” he proudly told them.
Embracing Challenges with DI Hub Support
Stephen admits he initially felt out of his depth with some of the DI Hub’s tools. "I really felt this. I’m over my head with this stuff... I’m not a construction guy," he says. However, the collaboration with DI Hub staff and access to resources turned these challenges into learning opportunities. "You have to collaborate with somebody… The polite way of saying you don’t know what you’re doing," Stephen quips.
Inspiring Others to Innovate
Stephen’s work has sparked curiosity among his colleagues and peers. "I told some of my colleagues who were a little bit shy and reluctant to approach the Hub, ‘Don’t be afraid,’" he shares. Encouraging others to explore the DI Hub’s resources aligns with its mission to empower individuals to innovate and create.
Join the DI Hub Collaborator Community
Stephen’s experience underscores how the DI Hub fosters creativity, learning, and collaboration. Whether you're a seasoned mathematician, an artist, or simply someone with an idea, the DI Hub provides the tools, expertise, and community to bring your vision to life. Explore DI Hub memberships today and discover how you can embark on your own journey of innovation.