Graduating Honors Student Excels in Leadership

April 25, 2025 | Graduate News, News, UToday, Alumni, Business and Innovation
By Natalie Burgess



Mai Mang has gone beyond her major in her four years of study at UToledo and become a leader of student involvement.

One of her most important roles has been her time as an honors ambassador at the Jesup Scott Honors College, where she organized events, talked to prospective honors students and participated in numerous honors college events.

Graduation Cap

CELEBRATING SUCCESS: UToledo recognizes the Class of 2025 with a series of stories featuring students receiving their degrees at spring commencement.

“As an ambassador, I helped connect current students, prospective students and alumni,” Mang said. “These experiences allowed me to develop leadership, public speaking and event-planning skills while helping new students feel more at home and informed about the Honors College.”

Another key experience in the Honors College was her trip with International Samaritan in Kingston, Jamaica, to aid communities in need.

“I got to paint a classroom with my classmates from my honors class,” she said. “It wasn’t just about adding a fresh coat; it was like giving the place a whole new vibe. Now, it’s a spot where scholars can do homework and study, making it feel brighter and more inviting. I also had the heartwarming opportunity to play with the little kids in the basic schools of the Riverton community. Their pure souls and boundless energy brought an extra dose of joy and excitement to the entire experience.”

Jamie Lefevre, student program coordinator for the Honors College, said that Mang naturally stepped up to be a leader even in situations where she was not asked to.

“It’s been a privilege to bear witness to Mai’s growth as a student and a leader here at The University of Toledo,” Lefevre said. “As an international student, Mai has made it clear that she planned to fully embrace her four years here, and one look at her schedule is proof enough that she’s more than accomplished that goal. It’s hard to imagine the Honors College experience without Mai’s friendly face — other students and I frequently marvel at her ability to somehow attend nearly every event around campus. She’s been such a model representative for us and UToledo at large.”

Portrait of Mai Mang, who will receive her bachelor’s degree in business administration in marketing and operations and supply chain management on May 3, served as an ambassador for the Jesup Scott Honors College.

Mai Mang, who will receive her bachelor’s degree in business administration in marketing and operations and supply chain management on May 3, served as an ambassador for the Jesup Scott Honors College.

Graduating Saturday, May 3, with a bachelor’s degree in business administration in marketing and operations and supply chain management, Mang recently received Student Pacemaker Award for her exceptional academic achievement, University and community service, and leadership in her college. She will also be leaving behind her own founded organization: IGNITION Information Systems Students Group.

“IGNITION was founded in January 2024, inspired by the former AITP (Association of Information Technology Professionals), which faded during the COVID period,” Mang said. “IGNITION aims to provide other business major students with opportunities to network with professionals. We’ve hosted events like Job Fair Prep Night, Casino Night and Game Night. I’ve passed the leadership of the organization to a trusted individual to ensure it continues to thrive after I graduate.”

Mang is currently interviewing for positions in the business field and said she hopes to someday pursue a master’s degree.

“UToledo is an amazing school, and the Honors program really adds to the experience,” she said. “The extra opportunities, interactions and learning outcomes are irreplaceable with the Honors College and UToledo as a whole. The professors and staff here are so supportive and there is so much opportunity to succeed.”