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Meet the ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Chemistry Department

At Fort Lewis College, the Chemistry and Biochemistry faculty are more than subject matter experts—they are passionate educators dedicated to student success. Every professor holds a Ph.D. in a chemistry subdiscipline and is deeply engaged in undergraduate teaching, mentoring and research.

Faculty members have earned recognition for outstanding teaching across Colorado. Highlights include:

  • Callie Cole, Ph.D., who received the 2019 Ginny Hutchins Teaching Award for New Faculty
  • Jim Dickson, Ph.D., recipient of the 2019 Kathy Wellborn Outstanding Teaching Award
  • Kenny Miller, Ph.D., who received the 2014 Alice Admire Outstanding Teaching Award
  • Emeritus professor Ron Estler, Ph.D., named Carnegie Colorado Teacher of the Year in 2009

Faculty also lead exciting undergraduate research. Recent campus honors include:

  • Featured Scholars: Bill Collins, Ph.D., in 2020 and Jeff McFarlane, Ph.D., in 2024
  • ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Achievement Award: Joslynn Lee, Ph.D., in 2025 for inclusive excellence and student success
  • ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Alumni Association Service to ÅÝܽ¶ÌÊÓƵ Award: Joslynn Lee, Ph.D., for reconciliation leadership

The department’s reputation extends beyond campus. Recruiters, graduate schools and research institutions regularly visit to meet students—opening doors to prestigious programs and career opportunities after graduation.

Faculty

Staff

Emeritus & retired faculty

In Memoriam

Rodney D. Hamilton, Ph.D., Emeritus Professor of Chemistry
Dr. Hamilton passed away on April 29, 2012, after a 4-year battle with cancer.

Irwin L. (Ike) Klundt, Ph.D., Adjunct Professor of Chemistry
Dr. Klundt passed away on October 31, 2009, after a 3-year battle with cancer.

Doreen M. Mehs, Ph.D., Emeritus Professor of Chemistry
1973-1999
Dr. Mehs passed away on May 16, 2009, from vascular dementia.

James W. Mills, Ph.D. Emeritus Professor of Chemistry
1973-2002
Dr. Mills passed away on January 28, 2025 from pulmonary disease