Associate Professor Gary Halada is a finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM). The award honors individuals who have made significant contributions to mentoring within the STEM field.
“Dr. Halada’s dedication to mentoring and his impactful contributions to the success of underrepresented students in STEM have not only elevated our department but also have set a standard for mentorship across the university,” said Dilip Gersappe, professor and chair of the Department of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering. “We are honored to have him as a member of our faculty.”
PAESMEM highlights mentors who provide opportunities for students who might otherwise lack access to pursue STEM education. The award considers anyone contributing to education in the United States. In addition to a certificate signed by the President, recipients receive a $10,000 reward from the National Science Foundation.
Halada, an alumnus of Stony Brook University, has been part of its faculty for over 30 years, starting as a graduate student. He currently serves as both associate professor and undergraduate program director (ESG), dedicating significant time to mentoring students alongside his teaching and research duties. He previously received the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching from Stony Brook University in 2013.
Halada's efforts span from middle school to higher education, igniting students' passion for STEM. Inspired by former faculty member Professor David Ferguson, Halada worked with challenged school districts on Long Island to improve their educational quality.
“I worked with high school teachers and learned what their challenges were,” Halada said. “They were having problems with test scores and figuring out why those problems happened, and then how we as a university could contribute to the teaching mission at even the high school and middle school level.”
Stony Brook University resources and outreach programs, in conjunction with other universities, have supported less privileged educators at Long Island middle and high schools. Halada describes Stony Brook as a “utility for education,” sharing his teaching knowledge and mentorship with students.
“A big aspect of this PAESMEM award is about building inclusivity,” Halada said. “It’s really about being able to reach out to students from different backgrounds and abilities to make a more inclusive educational program.”
— Angelina Livigni