Lake Erie College Welcomes Accomplished New Faculty| for Fall 2025
Lake Erie College is proud to announce the addition of six outstanding faculty members for the Fall 2025 semester.
School of Science, Technology, Research, Engineering, Animal and Medical Sciences (STREAMS)
Dr. Ryan R. Fairall has joined the School of STREAMS. With more than two decades of experience in the fitness and sports performance industry, Dr. Fairall holds a Ph.D. in Health Sciences with a concentration in Movement Science from Seton Hall University, among several other advanced degrees in exercise science and health promotion. A certified professional in numerous areas, including strength and conditioning, personal training, corrective exercise, and fitness nutrition, Dr. Fairall brings both scholarly and practical insights to the classroom. His research focuses on performance enhancement, injury prevention, and novel exercise interventions. Outside of work, Dr. Fairall enjoys staying active, exploring the outdoors, and cheering on his hometown Philadelphia sports teams.
Dr. Stacie Humm, also joining the School of STREAMS, has two decades of experience in exercise science and wellness leadership, combining a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology from Kent State University with certifications as an ACSM exercise physiologist and a registered yoga teacher. Her work focuses on making movement meaningful and accessible, whether through academic research on cardiovascular recovery or leading campus-wide wellness initiatives. A dedicated educator and practitioner, Dr. Humm bridges science and real-world application to help individuals build sustainable, evidence-based wellness practices.
Dr. Cari A. Ritzenthaler is joining Lake Erie College as an Assistant Professor of Environmental Science and Ecology, with a Ph.D., M.S., and B.S. from Bowling Green State University. Her interdisciplinary research bridges environmental science and social psychology, exploring how people adopt pro-environmental behaviors, how social systems influence sustainability, and how soil health intersects with farmer well-being. Before joining Lake Erie, she served as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Vermont, studying the links between agricultural sustainability, soil health, and stewardship. Her diverse research portfolio includes collaborations with the Toledo Zoo and Aquarium, where she evaluates conservation internship programs, and spans topics such as environmental identity, invertebrate ecology, and climate change. A passionate educator and science communicator, Dr. Ritzenthaler is committed to community outreach and active learning, engaging learners of all ages—from undergraduates to elementary school students—in building a more sustainable future.
School of Business and Professional Studies
Dr. Brian Kinnaird joins as Visiting Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice. A seasoned educator with 25 years of experience, Dr. Kinnaird previously held leadership roles at several institutions, including Fort Hays State University, University of the Incarnate Word, and Bethany College. He holds a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice and has a notable publishing record, including four books and regular contributions to Psychology Today. Dr. Kinnaird brings field expertise as a former deputy and SWAT officer, offering students a comprehensive perspective on criminal justice informed by both academic and professional experience.
Mirel V. Marculetiu joins the School of Business and Professional Studies as Assistant Professor of Finance. Currently completing his Doctor of Business Administration at Cleveland State University, Marculetiu brings over a decade of teaching experience across finance, operations management, supply chain, statistics, and business analytics. His approach emphasizes real-world application, shaped by a robust background in investment banking, entrepreneurship, and corporate leadership. His research centers on ESG, hedge fund strategies, and inflation uncertainty. A recipient of Cleveland State's Outstanding Teaching Award and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Marculetiu is dedicated to applied learning and shaping the next generation of ethical business leaders.
Dr. Leatra Tate has been appointed Assistant Professor of Psychology. She earned her Ph.D. in Community Engagement from Point Park University and brings over a decade of scholar-practitioner experience in community and developmental psychology. Prior to joining Lake Erie College, she held roles in military sexual assault prevention and helped launch Erie County Community College in Pennsylvania. Dr. Tate’s teaching and research focuses on social and humanistic psychology, survivor support, and the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. Her podcast, The Unwanted Sorority, highlights survivor narratives through a research-based lens.
“Lake Erie College is thrilled to welcome these exceptional educators to our campus community,” said President Jennifer N. Schuller. “Their dedication to student-centered teaching, research excellence, and community engagement will strengthen our academic mission and enrich the educational experience for all students.”
These new hires bring a wealth of academic expertise, industry experience, and a shared commitment to student success and community engagement.