Dalia Hanna, Ph.D.

Dr. Dalia Hanna, Toronto, Canada

Adjunct Professor – Computer Science

EDUCATION

  • Ph.D. in Computer Science
  • M.Sc. in Instructional Design and Technology (Online Learning Specialization)
  • B.Sc. in Electronics and Communication Engineering
  • Women in Education Leadership, Harvard University (Certificate)

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Dr. Dalia Hanna is an educator, scholar, and curriculum leader with more than 30 years of combined business and academic experience, including 18 years in higher education. She is certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP®), Professional Engineer (Ontario), Prosci® ADKAR Change Management Practitioner, and ISO 9000 Internal Auditor. Her areas of expertise span computational public safety, data and algorithm analysis, drone-enabled search and rescue, simulation and game-based learning, accessibility in education, and online learning innovation.

At Westcliff University, Dr. Hanna was one of the earliest champions of the institution’s Canadian expansion, contributing to program submissions and helping shape the foundation of the Master of Information Systems & Technology (MIST) program through focus group participation. She continues to teach computer science, expand her portfolio, and actively support the Canadian faculty team.

Her philosophy of teaching emphasizes innovation, accessibility, and mentorship, creating a collaborative environment where students can link technical knowledge to real-world impact. She views education as a shared journey that empowers learners to apply their skills to solve meaningful challenges.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS & RESEARCH

Dr. Hanna’s research portfolio is widely recognized, with publications and conference presentations on UAV-assisted search and rescue operations, disaster response optimization, and technology-enhanced education. Highlights include:

  • Drone’s Trajectory Optimization for Searching a Disaster Collapsed Area Using Data Mining Techniques (IEEE ICCI*CC 2022)
  • A UAV-Based Algorithm to Assist Ground SAR Teams in Finding Lost Persons Living with Dementia (IEEE/ION PLANS 2020)

Beyond Westcliff, Dr. Hanna serves as Associate Dean at Sheridan College in Ontario and teaches professional communications at Toronto Metropolitan University. She remains an active voice in shaping innovative approaches to technology education in Canada and globally.