Faculty News & Kudos

We welcome any news related to your scholarly and creative life – local talks and awards, interviews, exhibited work, competition entries, conference presentations, work or proposals submitted for review, service on a panel, travel, press coverage, performance, events facilitated or organized, creative or professional projects completed.

Submit Your News — email facultycommons@citytech.cuny.edu

Jose Diaz Named to CUNY Academic Technology Advisory Committee

Jose Diaz (Academic Technologies and Online Learning) is an invited member of CUNY’s new University Academic Technology Advisory Committee, formed by the Office of Academic Affairs in partnership with the University Faculty Senate, in recognition of his “leadership in academic technology, online learning, and the integration of AI.”

Cailean Cooney Appointed Living Lab Co-Director

Cailean Cooney (Library) has been appointed as a new co-director of Living Lab. She, along with continuing co-director Javiela Evangelista (African American Studies), organize and lead the annual January Living Lab Workshop.

Samaneh Gholitabar Receives NASA and NYC Health Dept Awards

Samaneh Gholitabar (Construction Management and Civil Engineering Technology) has received a NASA Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) MPLAN25 Award, a $50,000 grant for “Microgravity Simulation for Lunar In-Situ Build.” The project uses advanced simulations to study how lunar soil can support construction in reduced gravity and extreme conditions. Additionally, Professor Gholitabar was selected for the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s Pilot Pitchfest Research Track, a competitive program that pairs academic researchers with city agencies to address real-world challenges. Her work will focus on developing a health impact assessment for major events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Read more here.