Stony Brook University Honors McDonnell and Esmaili with Prestigious CELT Awards

Left: Ahmad Esmaili, Right: Kevin McDonnell

The Center for Excellence in Learning and Teaching (CELT) Awards recognize and celebrate faculty members who excel in their teaching practices and contribute significantly to enhancing the educational experience at the university. This year, two instructors from the Department of Computer Science have been honored with the awards, recognizing their contributions to cultivating an exceptional learning environment for their students.

Kevin McDonnell and Ahmad Esmaili each received the 2024 CELT Celebration of Teaching Awards. McDonnell was awarded the Provost’s Outstanding Lecturer Award, and Esmaili received the award for Excellence in Teaching an Online Course.

“Providing students with an exceptional educational experience is fundamental to their growth and success. It is essential that our instructors not only impart knowledge but also inspire and engage students in meaningful learning,” said Samir Das, Professor and Chair of the Department of Computer Science. “Our faculty members play a crucial role in creating an environment where students can thrive, and their dedication truly elevates our academic programs.”

McDonnell, a professor in the Department of Computer Science and the Undergraduate Program Director for Stony Brook's Computer Science major, has been at Stony Brook since 2015. Prior to working at Stony Brook, he earned his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in Computer Science from the university, as well as his B.S. in both Computer Science and Applied Mathematics. During his teaching career, he has taught computer science courses ranging from elementary programming to advanced topics in CS applications. He oversees the department’s undergraduate curriculum, coordinates the CS major's accreditation with ABET, and serves as the primary faculty advisor for CS majors.

Ahmad Esmaili, a lecturer in the Department of Computer Science, is also an alumnus of Stony Brook University, having earned his M.S. in Computer Science from Stony Brook. Esmaili has taught a variety of undergraduate courses over the years, including advanced topics such as Mobile Application Development in iOS and Android. Ahmad also serves as the Undergraduate Program Director for Information Systems and helps to shape the program's direction and development.