State Mathematics Educators Hall of Fame Taps Syosset's Lee

Jong Pil Lee, a distinguished service professor at SUNY College at Old Westbury, has been inducted as a member of the New York State Mathematics Educators Hall of Fame.  Dr. Lee was feted by the New York State Association of Mathematics Supervisors at the organization’s 7^th annual NYSAMS Leadership Summit, held recently in Tarrytown, New York.

“Dr. Lee has spent nearly 40 years engaging people in the pursuit of mathematical excellence,” said College President Calvin O. Butts, III.  “Whether school-aged children, his Old Westbury students, or the professional teachers who study in his programs, he has influenced thousands and made them aware of the importance mathematics plays in our lives and our society.  Our campus community congratulates him on this latest honor.”

His entrance in the New York State Mathematics Educators Hall of Fame follows his inclusion in the inaugural induction class in 2006 of the Long Island Mathematics Educators Hall of Fame.  Among other recognitions he has earned include a U.S. Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring, a SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Research and Scholarship, and this year a Distinguished Alumnus Award from Bowling Green State University. 

Dr. Lee’s role as a mentor extends to both teachers and students.  In 1987, he initiated the annual Long Island Mathematics Conference, held at the College.  Since its inception, more than 500 mathematics educators from the metropolitan New York area travel to Old Westbury each year to participate in this forum for innovative ideas and common goals — effectively improving the effectiveness and vision in mathematics education.

Dr. Lee is also the Founder and Project Director of the Institute of Leadership Development for Teaching Mathematics and Technology.  Since 1986, the Institute has provided teacher in-service training for more than 1,000 teachers from the metropolitan New York area.

And, in keeping with his objective of helping the United States maintain and improve its leadership position in a technological world, Dr. Lee in 1992 founded the Institute of Creative Problem Solving for Gifted and Talented Students to develop their creativity at their full potential.   Through this program, 75 students in grades 5-10 are chosen annually from a pool of approximately 1,000 students recommended by area school districts.  These high-achievers take part in 20 intensive Saturday sessions designed by Dr. Lee to stimulate their minds and build their wealth of knowledge.  More than 10 percent of those completing the Institute's program have gone on to win recognition and awards in national and international math, science and engineering contests, including being selected as Intel and Siemens awardees in math, science or technology. 

Dr. Lee earned his Ph.D. from the University of Alberta in Canada, an M.A. from Bowling Green State University in Ohio, and a B.S. from Chonpuk National University in Korea.  Named a Distinguished Service Professor by SUNY in 1990, he has been a member of the SUNY College at Old Westbury faculty since 1973.