Dr. Adnan Sabuwala, associate professor of mathematics, died on Sunday, Sept. 29. He was 40 years old.

Sabuwala joined Fresno State in 2008, after earning his Ph.D. in applied mathematics from the University of Florida. He was an exceptional teacher-scholar and was well known among students as an inspiring professor who cared deeply about their development and success.

“Adnan was a dedicated teacher and a close friend. He was a very detail-oriented, sharp and witty person,” said Rajee Amarasinghe, professor and chair of the Department of Mathematics. “He enjoyed problem-solving in mathematics and was committed to developing the next generation of mathematics problem solvers.”

Sabuwala’s leadership was instrumental in helping many K-12 students gain proficiency in math and a passion for the subject through initiatives such as Math Circle and Math Field Day.

“I particularly enjoyed conversations with him about Math Field Day and the impact the event had on students and the community,” said Christopher Meyer, dean of the College of Science and Mathematics. “His passing is a tremendous loss to our college, campus and our community. He will be missed greatly.”

Carol Fry Bohlin, professor and chair of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction in the Kremen School of Education and Human Development, called Sabuwala a respected friend and colleague “who positively impacted the lives of all who knew him and who helped address the math teacher shortage throughout the state by helping prospective math teachers understand calculus more deeply and pass one of the state licensure tests (CSET).”

A celebration of life service is being planned.