Center for Faculty Excellence New Faculty Member Spotlight: Meet Mitchell T. Howell

Purdue University Northwest’s Center for Faculty Excellence is pleased to introduce several new faculty members who have joined the university during the 2025-26 academic year.

Get to know more about Mitchell T. Howell, visiting assistant professor of Chemistry!

Why did you choose PNW?

“As a PNW alum, I was happy to come back to PNW after receiving my doctorate from Northern Illinois University so I could give back to the university that inspired me to advance and excel in my discipline. It is here that I believe I can make a positive impact on society and our communities through engagement with the students.”

What are you most excited about in your first year?

“Hosting chemistry labs for the students. The lab is where the fun is!”

What is the best piece of advice you would like to give PNW students?

“If you jump in the center, it is harder to fall off the edge.”

What is your favorite quote?

“Keep your eye on the donut, not the hole” – David Lynch

Why did you get into your field of study?

“When I came to PNW as a freshman out of high school in 2014, I was not sure what I was going to pursue as a degree path. Worse yet, I hardly knew how to read and had weak math skills. So, I started at the very beginning in all my coursework: basic mathematics, English and science. I threw everything I had into learning and mastering my courses at PNW. In doing so, I found a passion for chemistry, physics and mathematics. Now, ten years later, I obtained a doctorate in chemistry and am back at PNW to provide others with the same opportunity I had to that changed my life’s trajectory.”