Current Group

Dr. Sarah Wolf

Dr. Wolf joined the Chemistry department at Cortland in August 2022, after graduating with a PhD from the University of Pennsylvania under the mentorship of Zahra Fakhraai. Prior, she received her Bachelor’s of Science in Chemistry from Arcadia University and Master’s of Science in Forensic Science from Arcadia University.

Hawa Oulale

Hawa started Cortland in Spring 2025. Her majors are Biochemistry and Business Economics. Her hobbies include watching true crime documentaries, cooking, journaling, and knitting. In the lab, Hawa works using calorimetry to characterize polymer-drug Amorphous Solid Dispersions (ASDs).

Michael Desmond

Michael started Cortland in 2023 pursuing an exercise science degree. He enjoys learning and applying concepts from class especially in the various fields of sciences. He enjoys reading, working out, and watching movies. He plans to go to medical school. In the lab, Mike is studying the properties of glasses confined in thin films.

Leah Cotten

Leah started at Cortland in 2024 and is majoring in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. She is involved in Pre-PA Club, Biology Peer Mentoring, and undergraduate research. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, being outdoors, and staying involved around campus. She is also an EMT, which has been a meaningful part of her experience and has helped shape her interest in healthcare. After graduation, she hopes to attend PA school and eventually work as a physician assistant, ideally in emergency medicine or surgery. She is excited to keep learning, meet new people, and make the most of her time at Cortland! In the lab, Leah is studying the properties of glasses confined in nanoparticle composites.

Alumni

Sarah Kono, ’26
- Currently: Employed at Natrium products
Frederick Sitner, ’26
- Currently: Applying to Dental Schools
Abigail Morse, ’26
Daniel F., High School ’26
Dustine Izzo, ’25
- Currently: Employed as a Lab Tech
Christopher Faherty, ’25
- Currently: PhD Student at University of Vermont
Cassie Klock, ’25