Edustaff congratulates Ian Mangold on being named the Higher Education Employee of the Year for 2025-2026.
Ian is a biology lab assistant at North Central Michigan College, but his role goes far beyond that, according to biology professor Isis Arsnoe.
“Ian goes above and beyond to make the science building and biology rooms exciting places to be. His primary assignments are to care for the live animal and plant exhibits, assist in maintenance of our natural area trails, and maintain/set-up all things biology lab. This is a full “to-do” list for anyone, and yet Ian finds ways to give back to the college through directly helping students and staff in so many capacities,” she said. “He is always ready to lend a hand and showcase all of the great things we do here at North Central Michigan College and readily volunteers for events (campus days, volunteer trail maintenance, etc.). Not only is Ian willing to help out, he is creative and actively seeks ways to continuously improve our facility and offerings.”
His many contributions include maintaining the trails in the college’s Natural Area, organizing projects with local elementary schools, giving zookeeper talks that are open to the public, mentoring student interns, expanding the biodiversity of the college’s live organism exhibits, creating new ambient learning opportunities for students and staff, and taking on the role as head coach of North Central’s Michigan College’s eSports team, serving as a mentor and role model for the student athletes.
“His positive impact has enhanced not only the science department and courses at our institution, but also the entire campus and community at large,’ Isis said.
Ian, a former zookeeper, was working as a stay-at-home dad when he heard about the job opportunity at the college. It sounded like a perfect fit – and it has been, he said. It’s the people he works with who make it that way.
“I’ve never had a negative interaction with anyone on campus, student or faculty,” he said.
When he’s working on the nature trail, pulling invasive plants or maintaining the boardwalk, people are always stopping to thank him for his work.
“That makes it easy to continue saying ‘Yes,’” he said. “They let you know they’re seeing it all the time.”
In his off hours, Ian likes to spend time on the nature trail with his three kids. He’s also immersed in 4H with his kids, who raise pigeons, chickens and rabbits.
“We hang out, try to do stuff locally, and go to every outdoor event possible,” he said.
Congratulations, Ian, and thank you for your many contributions to North Central Michigan College!
