Faculty & Staff
Chemistry & Biochemistry Department

At Fort Lewis College, our Chemistry faculty are not only experts in their fields—they’re dedicated educators who prioritize student success. Every faculty member holds a PhD in a subdiscipline of chemistry and is deeply committed to undergraduate teaching, mentoring, and research.

Our professors have been repeatedly recognized for their outstanding teaching, both locally and statewide. Dr. Kenny Miller received the Alice Admire Outstanding Teaching Award in 2014, and Emeritus Professor Ron Estler was named the Carnegie Colorado Teacher of the Year in 2009. Top-tier graduate programs recognize the strength of our department. Professors from major research institutions visit campus annually to give seminars and connect with students—often leading to exciting opportunities beyond graduation.

Our teaching philosophy

We prioritize hands-on learning, close mentorship, and research-based instruction to prepare students for careers and graduate study. By combining classroom excellence with real-world experience, we help students build critical skills and confidence in their field.

• Rob Milofsky, Ph.D. (1992-2018), milofsky_r@fortlewis.edu
• Ron Estler, Ph.D. (1992-2016), estler_r@fortlewis.edu
• William R. Bartlett, Ph.D. (1992-2010), bartlett_t@fortlewis.edu
• Merle E. Harrison, Ph.D. (?-1988), harrison_m@fortlewis.edu
• William C. Langworthy, Ph.D. (1992-2000), hillsidebill@aol.com
• James W. Mills, Ph.D. (1992-2002), mills_j@fortlewis.edu
• John M. Ritchey, Ph.D. (1992-1996), dgojmr@gmail.com
• Rosanna Babcock, Former Academic Assistant (1993-2012), alchemyst68@yahoo.com
• Carl Stransky, Former Laboratory Coordinator (1992-2004)

In Memoriam

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

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.

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