Sr. Joan Harnett’s tenure at Manhattan University began in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. While she holds a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics – Operations Research from SUNY Stonybrook, much of her early course work dealt with the computer science curriculum. When a separate Computer Science Department was established, Sr. Harnett retained a joint appointment with Computer Science and Mathematics, serving as an interim chairperson of the fledgling Computer Science Department before returning full time to Mathematics.
Sr. Harnett’s academic interests have centered on curriculum development especially with regard to the use of technology in developing applications in operations research, statistics and database management. Her work has been recognized by Manhattan University with the conferring of the Distinguished Lasallian Educator and the Bonus et Fidelis awards. Current external work includes the design of a database to manage electronic elections of leadership for the Sisters of St. Dominic, Amityville, NY.