New faculty joins MCLA

The College welcomed many new hires this semester, including six new faculty members who have joined various departments.

The faculty members include Mark Cohen, associate professor of Computer Science and Information Systems; Elizabeth Hartung, assistant professor of Mathematics; Ryan Krzyzanowicz, instructor for the Athletic Training program in the Biology department; Katy Miller, assistant professor of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social work; Nicholas Stroud, assistant professor of Science and Technology in the Education Department; and Benjamin Wood, assistant professor of Psychology.

“We’re really happy we have six very dynamic faculty,” said Cindy Brown, vice president of Academic Affairs.  “Each of them brings expertise in their field and are excited to work with students.”

Professor Cohen came from Pennsylvania’s Lock Haven University because he said he was drawn to the natural beauty of the area and liked the small size of the campus. He also met the Computer Science faculty and thought they would be a good group to work for.

“I like the idea of a public liberal arts education,” he said.  “I think that’s important.”
Cohen and his wife enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and winter activities.  He recognized they could do these things in the area and there were a lot of other attractions, such as film, theatre, and art.

His primary goal is to get to know all the students in the Computer Science program.  He would also like to get involved outside the classroom, with advising clubs and attending athletic events.

“I would like to do as much as I can on campus and outside of the classroom,” he said.

On the other hand, Professor Miller has lived in the Berkshires for twenty-six years.  She originally came to the area to attend Simon’s Rock in Great Barrington and ended up staying.

Miller taught her first class at MCLA in 2000 and returned every other semester until 2005, when she decided to go back to school to get her Ph.D.  After teaching at other schools, including the University of Connecticut and Westfield State, Miller returned here.

“It’s great to come back here,” she said.  “I really like MCLA.  I believe in a liberal arts education.”

Miller also said that MCLA has a great student body, an energetic campus, and a diverse college community.  It was also a bonus to be closer to home, where she lives with her husband and two daughters.

“I’d really like to establish myself as a full time faculty member,” Miller said.  “I’m looking forward to seeing what I can bring to the MCLA community.”

As of right now the faculty members are settling in, but so far, so good, Brown said.  She added that this new group represents growth and the meetings of needs and programs, such as the athletic programs and the new tenure track position in Math.

“They’ll be seeing a lot of these faculty around campus is my prediction,” Brown said.

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