Wayne Snyder

Wayne Snyder is a Lecturer in Computing & Data Sciences and Associate Professor Emeritus in Computer Science. He is responsible for teaching courses within the online Master's in Data Science program, and actively participates in the overall course design.

Wayne grew up in Yardley, Pennsylvania, where his first career detour was to apprentice in his father’s machine shop. After a second detour at the Berklee School of Music, he found his calling in academia. With a major in Latin and a minor in Greek from Dickinson College, followed by a master's degree in classics from Tufts University, Wayne seemed destined for a life immersed in the ancient world. However, the Fates had other plans, and he earned his Ph.D. in computer science from the University of Pennsylvania in 1988 with a thesis in Artificial Intelligence, focusing on computational approaches to algebraic reasoning.

Upon joining BU, Wayne continued his research in computational logic with colleagues in France and Germany, and taught a wide range of courses from introductory computer science to advanced courses in programming languages and automated reasoning, making an indelible mark on generations of students. He was passionate about teaching computer science in the context of the liberal arts, which led to his enthusiastic involvement in the Core Curriculum.  In recent years, he developed courses in Computational Audio and Natural Language Processing, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to staying at the forefront of the field.

Wayne's contributions extended beyond the classroom, as he served in a variety of administrative roles with distinction, from Undergraduate Director to Chairman of the department, and in 2005 he commenced a five-year stint as Associate Dean for Student Academic Life.

His commitment to mentoring students earned him the 2002 CAS Award for Excellence in Student Advising and led to his joining the Faculty-in-Residence program and organizing a weekly math tutoring session in Rich Hall.