Ahmad Esmaili, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Computer Science and Undergraduate
Program Director for Information Systems, has been selected for the 2024-2025 SUNY
Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching. The award acknowledges Esmaili's well-
earned reputation as an exceptional educator who transforms student learning through
innovative, data-driven approaches.

Year after year, Esmaili has earned outstanding praise from students across his many popular
courses, including CSE 114 (Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming), ISE 311 (Systems
Administration), and CSE 214 (Data Structures and Algorithms). In course evaluations, students
consistently remark on his ability to make complex programming concepts accessible while
maintaining rigorous academic standards. Students particularly appreciate his integration of
real-world industry projects and his use of learning analytics to personalize instruction and
improve outcomes.

Since joining Stony Brook in 2001, Esmaili has pioneered new approaches in foundational
computer science courses by implementing industry-aligned projects, collaborative problem-
solving exercises, and real-time assessment analytics. This, combined with his data-driven
approach to curriculum development, has significantly improved student engagement and better
prepared students for professional careers in technology. His innovative teaching methodology
recently earned him the Excellence in Educational Effectiveness Award, recognizing his
commitment to assessment-driven instruction.

Esmaili’s leadership extends beyond the classroom. As the ISE Undergraduate Program
Director, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the program’s direction and development. He has
been honored with a Certificate of Recognition in Assessment and a Letter of Appreciation for
Exceptional University Service, acknowledging his dedication, invaluable contributions, and
unwavering commitment to academic excellence and cross-cultural engagement.

Congratulations to Ahmad Esmaili on this well-deserved recognition by SUNY for his
outstanding contributions to computer science education and his dedication to student success
at Stony Brook University.