Todd Basil

Instructor, Mathematics

After earning a B.F.A. in film production from Chapman University and working at DreamWorks Animation, Todd Basil revisited his love for mathematics and earned a master’s degree in general mathematics at California State University, Los Angeles. Through teaching mathematics, Todd strives to promote critical thinking, encourage collaboration, and lessen anxiety through humor. He is always looking for musical and tactile ways to present mathematics and seeks to connect math and entertainment. Before joining the University of Portland, he was an adjunct faculty member at Clackamas Community College, Chemeketa Community College, Portland Community College, and the National University of Natural Medicine. He has served as a math tutor and workshop leader and taught in the California State University, Los Angeles Early Start program, which is designed to prepare students for the first semester of college and help them improve their skills in math and English. Outside of the classroom, he enjoys trail running in Forest Park, hosting an open mic, and traveling.