Tri-C Famous: Joe Koch

#TriCFamous is a bimonthly feature that introduces readers to the people who make the College work while providing a sneak peek into their lives off campus.

Joe Koch joined the Tri-C family nine years ago as an assistant professor of biology. He teaches labs and lectures at the Western Campus, where he also serves as faculty counterparts chair. Learn more about Joe ─ including how he builds mental and physical endurance ─ in this week’s Tri-C Famous.

1. Tell us about your pet(s).
I have a 3-year-old Boston Terrier named Merrell. She converted me from someone who didn’t care for dogs to someone who waves to them on the street from his car.

2. What’s your favorite weekend activity?
I enjoy rock climbing. The indoor gyms in our area provide a fun and challenging way to work out in the winter months, and I’ve met many close friends there. I’m passionate about health and fitness in general, but running and weightlifting can be monotonous. If you’ve ever wanted to try a sport that really works your mind and body, give climbing a try.

3. Tell us about one of your hobbies.
I like to build furniture and home decor from reclaimed wood and other materials. Sometimes I’ll combine elements from different pieces I’ve seen on image sharing sites and add my own twists. I’ve finally gotten to the point where I’m not embarrassed to give my creations as gifts ─ a milestone for any artist.

Want to be Tri-C Famous? Email beth.cieslik@tri-c.edu for a chance to be featured (or to nominate someone else!)

September 14, 2021

Beth Cieslik, 216-987-4538 or beth.cieslik@tri-c.edu