Students call attention to allegations against science professor Joe Mueller

By Gloria Hubbell Corena

Editor-in-Chief

On Friday morning, May 1st, approximately twenty students gathered on the College of Marin campus to protest allegations of misconduct involving a science professor. The demonstration began along College Ave., where students held signs reading “My Body is NOT My Tuition!” and “Justice for Joe’s Survivors 1995–Present,” and later moved across campus before concluding in front of the administrative offices.

Chants of “Justice!” could be heard throughout the protest as passing cars honked in support.

The protest was organized by student Babette Papineau, who said she has filed Title IX-related complaints and is scheduled for a hearing on May 22. Papineau and other demonstrators allege that Professor Joe Mueller engaged in inappropriate behavior toward students over several years.

“We have found victims from the 90s,” one protester said.

Papineau said she first took a class with the professor in 2023 and continued enrolling in his courses through spring 2025. In a written statement, she said her experiences in those classes had a significant impact on both her academic path and personal well-being.

“I was studying to be a naturalist, but not anymore,” Papineau wrote, adding that she plans to change her major to philosophy after reporting the situation.

Papineau also said she felt pressure to remain enrolled in the professor’s courses because they were required for her field of study. She said this influenced her decision to continue taking his classes until she ultimately chose to report her concerns and leave the program.

Speaking during the protest, Papineau described her experience and her decision to come forward.

“I am here because I was … abused by a professor of mine,” Papineau said. She added that she chose to speak out after changing her academic path, and claimed that others have reported similar concerns over a long period of time. Papineau also said she believes fear of retaliation has prevented some students from coming forward.

Other students at the protest referenced similar concerns, including allegations of inappropriate relationships, grading issues, abuse towards both male and female students, and unprofessional conduct. Some demonstrators also pointed to online reviews and personal accounts they say support these claims. These allegations have not been independently verified by The Mariner Times.

The protest aimed to raise awareness and encourage the college to take action. Organizers said they hope additional students will come forward and that the demonstration will lead to further investigation.

In response to a request for comment, College of Marin provided a statement emphasizing its policies regarding discrimination and investigations. Nicole Cruz, Director of Marketing and Communications, stated that the college is “committed to providing an academic and work environment free of unlawful discrimination on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment under Title IX,” and added that the college maintains a “robust and thorough process for investigating complaints.” The statement also noted that it is college policy not to comment on specific student or employment matters.

The protest concluded without incident. Organizers announced that a follow-up demonstration is planned for Wednesday, May 13, at 12:30 p.m.

Editor’s Note (Update): This article has been updated to include a statement provided by the faculty member on May 12, 2026. When reached for comment regarding the protests, Professor Mueller stated:

“This matter is being addressed confidentially by the College of Marin, I deny all accusations and I have no further comment.”