Illinois Valley Community College’s Dr. Matthew Johll is transforming chemistry and forensic science education by involving students in genuine criminal investigations. His innovative curriculum incorporates real cases from La Salle County, some of which date back decades. Dr. Johll is satisfied that she now has a name. “If we were able to give her a name, we would restore that humanity to her. And my students at the time learned firsthand how the science they learn here can be put to use outside the classroom. And I know we helped in a small but critical part.” Through detailed analysis and laboratory work, Johll’s students have contributed to solving local mysteries and even assisted justice reform initiatives in Britain. This practical, hands-on approach demonstrates the power of scientific education in addressing real-world challenges and bringing new insights to longstanding investigations, highlighting the impactful role educators can play beyond the classroom.
“I am always looking for applications – how we can use this or that principle. What better way to learn science than in the context of solving cases and righting wrongs?” he said.
Forensic scientist Dr. Johll has taken his expertise across the Atlantic, traveling recently to England to contribute to “Lucy Letby: Beyond Reasonable Doubt?”—a documentary now available on YouTube, with a book expected later this year. Dr. Johll emphasizes the critical need for scientific rigor in legal proceedings, arguing that fair trials depend on accurate evaluation of forensic evidence. Known for bringing crime scene investigations to life in his classroom, Dr. Johll encourages students’ curiosity by blending real-world cases with hands-on experiments. His innovative teaching led him to write a forensic science textbook, now in its fifth edition.
“What I hope my students come out of this with is, do not let the fear of ‘no’ stop you from trying. When you see someone who is successful, ask where they were 10 or 15 years ago. Probably sitting in a classroom. Then they took some risks. The ones that are successful were not always successful – they just did not give up.”
