Art of Problem Solving Welcomes New Leadership to Propel Academic Excellence

Art of Problem Solving (AoPS), a recognized leader in providing advanced educational resources for K-12 students, has made significant leadership changes aimed at further enhancing the educational experience for students across the country. As of March 24, 2025, Ben Kornell has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), while Andrew Sutherland joins as the Chief Product Officer (CPO). This strategic shift comes as the current CEO and AoPS founder, Richard Rusczyk, transitions to a board member role, continuing to influence the organization from a different capacity.

Kornell, who previously led the Common Sense Media Growth Fund and served as CEO of AltSchool, brings extensive experience in educational leadership. His involvement with AoPS began as a parent and later as a school board member, emphasizing how personal experience drives his passion for elevating educational standards. "I've personally witnessed the transformative impact of AoPS on my son’s mathematical journey," Kornell stated. He expressed his excitement about leading the organization to inspire and challenge high-potential learners nationwide. "Our goal is to raise the academic ceiling for students, especially in a post-COVID world where the focus has often been on helping those who struggled during the pandemic," he added, reflecting his commitment to excellence in education.

Sutherland, renowned for founding Quizlet, the leading study aid platform with a vast user base, will focus on expanding AoPS’s curriculum and digital offerings. His vision is to broaden the reach of AoPS’s acclaimed Beast Academy for younger students, alongside the advanced curriculum designed for older learners. "AoPS represents a premier educational initiative, and I am thrilled to further enhance its mission through both physical and digital expansion," Sutherland commented. He also highlighted the need for advanced courses in computer science, aiming to fill gaps in traditional education systems.

Richard Rusczyk, who founded AoPS in 2003, expressed his enthusiasm for the organization's future under new leadership. Rusczyk’s vision for AoPS has always centered on shifting focus from rote memorization to problem-solving strategies—skills essential for success in competitive mathematics and academic pursuits. His textbooks have reached over half a million students annually and have played a crucial role in fostering the United States’ success in mathematics contests globally, including the International Math Olympiad. "Bringing in Ben and Andrew aligns with our mission to unlock the potential of the next generation of thinkers and innovators," Rusczyk stated.

As part of this leadership transition, Rusczyk joins a restructured board. The newly formed board, chaired by Josh Taylor of Carina, also includes Ahmed Khaishgi and Dushyant Saraph, who bring their unique expertise to further drive the organization’s objectives.

AoPS is committed to continuing its mission of delivering a comprehensive K-12 advanced math program, and with the leadership changes, the future looks promising for both the organization and the students it serves. To discover more about AoPS's extensive resources, courses, and educational materials, visit their website at Art of Problem Solving.

In conclusion, as we look toward the upcoming years with these new leaders at the helm, AoPS remains steadfast in its dedication to cultivating a generation of exceptional problem solvers capable of tackling the complex challenges of tomorrow’s world. The organization is not just about math; it’s about fostering a mindset geared towards critical thinking and innovation, essential components in the ever-evolving landscape of education and beyond.