Dr. Michelle Coach became the School Dean of STEM in the summer of 2025. She had served as Chief Executive Officer of CT State Asnuntuck, following earlier roles as Interim Dean of Academic Affairs and Biology faculty member. During her tenure as a faculty member, she developed innovative, cost-effective science programs, authored a microbiology lab manual and led Asnuntuck’s biology labs to achieve Biosafety Level 2 classification. Deeply committed to student-centered, real-world education, she and her team secured the prestigious Metallica Scholars Initiative Grant in 2024, expanding workforce and technical education opportunities.
Dr. Coach has contributed to initiatives such as Achieving the Dream, Guided Pathways, accessibility, academic planning, and transfer articulation. She has played a vital role in NECHE accreditation processes and regularly collaborates with partners across higher education, K-12, and industry to support students and staff.
Nationally recognized for her service to Phi Theta Kappa, Dr. Coach has served as New England Regional Coordinator, Faculty Scholar and elected board member, organizing more than 25 regional events. In recognition of her contributions, she received the Shirley B. Gordon Award for Community College Presidents and CEOs.
Dr. Coach holds degrees in biology (B.S., M.S.), an M.B.A., and an Ed.D. in educational leadership. She is passionate about connecting colleges with their communities, expanding workforce opportunities, and amplifying student voices wherever she serves.
