As the program’s director, he is intent on preserving that tradition.

“We’ve been preparing pathologists’ assistants since 1971,” he said. “Quinnipiac has always been committed to our program, and we’ve always been committed to this profession and our students.”

With the continued growth of his field and the increased interest in it among incoming undergraduates, Cottrell views Quinnipiac’s Dual-Degree BS/MHS in Biomedical Sciences and Pathologists’ Assistant (4+2) program as an extension of that commitment.

“This program is ideal because it provides an undergraduate experience that prepares students for the field of pathology, as well as an easy transition into graduate study,” he said.

Faculty represent a range of backgrounds and areas of expertise, including microbiology, lab management, disease mechanisms and anatomy and physiology.

“With so many different fields of study and research specialties, we are able to create an incredibly rich environment for learning,” said Cottrell, who teaches courses in histology, human pathology and surgical pathology, among others.

Cottrell also shapes his student’s growth at Greenwich Hospital in Connecticut, where he has worked as a pathologists’ assistant since 2002. He provides the same clinical guidance and mentorship that were cornerstones of his success.

“It’s important that they become committed, compassionate and skilled health care clinicians,” he said. “We give them the tools and the platform to do that.”