Mitzy L Schaney

Mitzy L Schaney, PhD is an Assistant Professor in the Social Science Division at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, serving as Director of Environmental Studies. Her research focuses on soil science, geomorphology, and environmental science with specialization in landform development and paleoclimatic interpretations. She holds a BS in Anthropology/Archaeology from Mercyhurst University (1999), MS and PhD in Geology from West Virginia University (2005 and 2019).

Her teaching portfolio includes courses such as Physical Geography, Environmental Planning, Water Resources, and Field Studies in Environmental Science. She actively integrates fieldwork and applied research into her academic programs.

Schaney's work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining geologic records with climatic frameworks to study anthropogenic impacts on ecosystems. Her recent studies include UAV-based assessments of coastal marshlands and paleoclimatic analyses of Appalachian soil profiles. She has contributed to projects at Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Saxis Wildlife Management Area. Her professional experience spans public and private sector roles in environmental science and archaeology.

Research highlights include radiocarbon dating methodologies for peatland chronology and investigations into mid-Holocene dry climate events. Schaney’s academic leadership includes directing undergraduate research initiatives and coordinating interdisciplinary environmental studies programs.