Mitchell College welcomes three new full-time faculty members, bringing expertise and energy to programs in the sciences and criminal justice. Joining the faculty are Dr. Laura Picraux, associate professor of chemistry; Dr. Madeline Kollegger, visiting assistant professor of marine and environmental science; and Sarbjeet Kaur, assistant professor of criminal justice.
Each brings unique experience and subject matter expertise that will enrich Mitchell’s distinctive, student-centered learning environment.
Dr. Laura Picraux brings extensive higher education and industry experience to her role as associate professor of chemistry. She joins Mitchell from the Community College of Rhode Island. There she taught both basic skills for chemistry and general chemistry and contributed to course and program assessment. Previously, she taught at Johnson & Wales University and Saddleback Community College. She earned her doctorate in chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley, and a bachelor’s degree from Bryn Mawr College.
Dr. Madeline Kollegger recently completed her doctorate in natural resources at the University of Connecticut. Her dissertation evaluated strategies for coastal marsh restoration. She received her master’s degree in earth and environmental science from Montclair State University, and a bachelor’s degree in natural resources from UConn. Her research focuses on coastal resilience and climate change adaptation. An award-winning educator and mentor, Kollegger has taught environmental science at UConn and served as a scientist-in-residence at Charles H. Barrows STEM Academy. She has been recognized for her engaging, inclusive teaching style and her commitment to inspiring environmental stewardship among students.
Sarbjeet Kaur is completing her doctorate in criminal justice at the University of New Haven. Her dissertation explores human trafficking by violent non-state actors and the global legislative disparities affecting women and children. She holds master’s degrees in forensic technology from the University of New Haven and in anthropology from Panjab University in India, where she also earned a postgraduate diploma in forensic science and criminology and a bachelor’s degree. Kaur brings rich academic and field experience, including serving as practitioner-in-residence at the University of New Haven’s Department of Forensic Science and acting interim director of its Center for the Forensic Investigation of Human Trafficking. Earlier roles include the New Haven Police Department, Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, and research projects in forensic science and human development.
“Mitchell College is excited to welcome these outstanding educators to our academic community,” said Mitchell College President Tracy Y. Espy. “Their collective expertise and passion for student success reflect our mission to empower every learner to discover their strengths and achieve meaningful impact in their chosen fields.”
Together, these new faculty members strengthen Mitchell’s dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic approach to learning.
