Farzana Rahman, an associate teaching professor in electrical engineering and computer science (EECS), has received the Chancellor’s Citation for Excellence in Outstanding Contributions to the Student Experience and University Initiatives. This award acknowledges faculty and staff who enhance the undergraduate experience for students or make contributions to supporting and advancing the University’s mission and goals through their work.
Rahman joined the College of Engineering and Computer Science in the spring of 2020. Over the past 12 years as an educator, she has blended evidence-based teaching practices with personalized mentoring, inclusive curriculum design and a deep commitment to student-centered learning. She has also designed and led multiple student engagement and experience initiatives to ensure that EECS students are not only successful in their studies but also feel a strong sense of belonging, agency and purpose.
Among her achievements in student engagement is the Inclusion Triangle, a framework to address three critical dimensions of student success: access, belonging and agency. Rahman also created Research Exposure for Students from Historically Overlooked and Resource-Constrained backgrounds (RESORC), which is a signature student engagement program that provides early research exposure to students who have traditionally faced systemic barriers, supporting students in building both technical expertise and a strong research identity.
“Receiving the Chancellor’s Award is both an incredible honor and a deeply personal milestone. It reflects the heart of my work—creating spaces where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to thrive,” she says. “For me, this recognition goes beyond individual achievement; it represents the shared journeys, challenges, and growth I’ve been privileged to experience alongside my students and colleagues.
“This award affirms my belief in the transformative power of inclusion, mentorship, and student-centered learning in higher education. It renews my commitment to fostering learning environments and student experiences where every student feels a true sense of belonging and is equipped to reach their fullest potential—both within the university and far beyond it.”
The Chancellor’s Citation for Excellence award will be presented to Rahman at the One University Awards Ceremony, an annual event to honor members of the Syracuse University community who are making a difference through academics, work and dedicated service. The ceremony will be held Friday, April 11, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in Hendricks Chapel.
“I am deeply grateful to my incredible colleagues whose support have been instrumental in shaping and sustaining my work, to my amazing students who continue to inspire me with their curiosity, resilience, and passion, and to Syracuse University for providing me with the platform to bring these ideas to life and create meaningful impact in computing education.”