Teacher of the Year Celia Cunanan-Cruz, a doctoral lecturer, is a dedicated educator with a lifelong passion for teaching. Holding multiple roles in two departments, she teaches both pure mathematics and math education, co-coordinates the Graduate Mathematics Education Program, and co-leads the Noyce Scholarship Program.

“This award reminds me that the heart of meaningful teaching lies in the everyday moments we create with our students—moments shaped by high expectations, firm but compassionate discipline, an approach that honors how students learn, constant reflection on our practice, and classrooms where every student’s voice matters and is valued,” she said.

Cruz was a seasoned mathematics professor at her alma mater, Philippine Normal University, before immigrating to New York where she began her second career— teaching mathematics in the City’s public schools for over a decade. She first came to Lehman as a student through the Mathematics Teacher Transformation Institute and was later hired as an adjunct assistant professor. Eventually she resumed a full-time position in higher education in her current title, serving in the departments of Middle and High School Education and Mathematics.

Cruz is an active researcher, textbook contributor, and conference speaker, with a strong focus on constructivist teaching and the intersection of math and literacy. She earned her master’s degree and Ph.D. with High Distinction from De La Salle University in Manila.