Teaching Philosophy
I believe education should mirror the collaborative environments where true innovation occurs. My approach is modeled on the dynamic, innovative teams I led at IBM, where individuals of all skill levels learn implicitly from one another. It’s not just a matter of imprinting facts, but of fostering a conversation where students discover and appreciate concepts for themselves. This philosophy of mutual discovery through discussion was central to how I mentored and coached junior team members across the globe. My objective is to foster these collaborative, discovery-oriented learning environments in every course I teach.
Academic Experience
I currently serve as Adjunct Faculty at the University of New Haven (2023–Present).
Previous Appointments
- New York Institute of Technology (2022)
- Adjunct Faculty, Computer Science Department
- Syracuse University (1995–1999)
- Research Fellow, Electrical and Computer Engineering Department
- South Dakota School of Mines & Technology (1992–1994)
- Assistant Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering Department
- American University of Beirut (1985–1988)
- Instructor, Electrical and Computer Engineering
Recent Courses
Intro to Quantum Computing
Focus: Quantum Algorithms & Qiskit
A cross-listed course exploring the quantum frontier. Topics include superposition, entanglement, and implementing algorithms like Grover’s and Shor’s using Python and the IBM Quantum Platform.
Database Systems
Focus: Architecture & Internals
A graduate survey of database internals, examining advanced normalization, transaction management, schema refinement, and security protocols alongside practical SQL implementation.
Theoretical Concepts
Focus: Automata & Complexity
A rigorous investigation into system capabilities and limitations, moving from mathematical logic and proofs to automata theory, Turing Machines, and computational complexity.
Databases and SQL
Focus: Design & Implementation
A comprehensive introduction to data management, bridging conceptual Entity-Relationship modeling with practical SQL database creation, query optimization, and normalization.
Discrete Mathematics
Focus: Logic & Proofs
The mathematical backbone of computer science, establishing the logic, set theory, counting techniques, and probability concepts required for analyzing algorithms and computing systems.
Introduction to Computing
Focus: Computational Thinking
A team-based exploration of problem-solving. Students solve algorithmic puzzles—like the “Frogs and Toads” game and Nim—and study cryptography and data representation.