New faces in great places: UM-Flint welcomes incoming faculty

The university welcomed its new faculty members at the annual Academic Affairs Convocation. The thirteen newcomers represent a diverse range of expertise and backgrounds. We spoke with some of them about their initial impressions, what drew them to UM-Flint, and more. Here are their thoughts.

Wendy Tremaine is not only starting her first-semester teaching at UM-Flint, she's also joining a program that began its first classes this month. She is one of three new faculty within the first entry-level doctor of occupational therapy program in the state of Michigan. Tremaine is the fieldwork coordinator for the program and a clinical assistant professor of occupational therapy.

"It's a big adventure to be part of this new program. People are excited and everyone on campus has been very gracious," said Tremaine, who has a wide range of professional, academic, and consulting experience within the field.

Nathaniel McClain joined the university as an assistant professor of education. He was enthused with the supportive environment at the Academic Affairs Convocation, along with the recognition numerous faculty members received for their efforts at the university.

"It shows that level of investment the university has in maintaining its talent pool," McClain said.

McClain is teaching classes within the education specialist program. He was a long-time administrator and educator in the Saginaw area.

Tom Lechner has been impressed with his students. The veteran accounting academic pointed to how well prepared they've been in class and engaged in discussions.

The accounting lecturer also has felt buoyed by his fellow faculty members, who he called "friendly and very welcoming."

"I'm glad to be on board. It seems like a very positive environment here."

Randall Duncan has been impressed with his new colleagues. The professor and chair of biology at UM-Flint started July 1. 

"They are hard workers and good teachers. They really care about the students," said Duncan, who was previously a professor of biological sciences and biomedical engineering at the University of Delaware. "They tell me they love it here. That kind of dedication is always something I admire and want to be a part of."

One of his goals is to develop outreach opportunities with area high schools.

Welcome to all new faculty. Here's the full list of new faculty recognized at convocation.

College of Arts & Sciences

You-Shin Chen, assistant professor of biology

Andy Deck, assistant professor of design

Randall "Randy" Duncan, professor and chair of biology

School of Management

Thomas Lechner, lecturer III of accounting

College of Health Sciences

Dawn Aubuchon, assistant director of nurse anesthesia program, and clinical assistant professor of nurse anesthesia

Donna Case, assistant professor of occupational therapy

Sarah Case, clinical assistant professor of physical therapy

Drew Hilbrandt, clinical coordinator and clinical assistant professor of physician assistant

Satyen Nichani, clinical associate professor of physician assistant

William Suits, clinical assistant professor of physical therapy

Wendy Tremaine, field work coordinator, and clinical assistant professor of occupational therapy

Jillian Woodworth, clinical assistant professor of occupational therapy

School of Education and Human Services

Nathaniel McClain, assistant professor of education