MOHAVE COUNTY – Mohave College congratulates Jay Wange, mathematics faculty, for being selected as a 2026 recipient of the Ellen Licari Service to Students Award. He is one of two employees to receive the award this year.
Wange has been teaching Mohave College students for three years. He joined the College as a mathematics faculty member after more than three decades of teaching middle and high school students, bringing with him a passion for helping students build confidence in math.
The award recognizes employees who go above and beyond to put students first. It was established in honor of Ellen Licari, a former college adviser dedicated to helping students succeed. Licari died in 2011, and the award is presented annually to a Mohave College employee who exemplifies her commitment to student support.
“I’m completely honored to be the recipient of the Ellen Licari award. I honestly and truly love my job, and to me this award tells me that my passion is transparent for my students. I can’t thank everyone involved enough for making this possible,” Wange said.
Wange earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary math education from Concordia College. He continued his education and earned a master’s degree in curriculum assessment and instruction from Walden University. Before coming to Mohave College, he taught math at the middle and high school levels for 31 years.
As a faculty member, Wange said he enjoys exchanging ideas with colleagues on how to teach course material in ways that help students learn. He is thankful for the opportunity to educate students at Mohave College and hopes the students he teaches are passionate about the careers they choose to pursue.
Wange was nominated by two students who praised the encouragement he provides, his ability to help students feel like they belong and the fun learning environment he creates.
“Mr. Wange made a meaningful difference in my journey by believing in me and in the entire class. He offered daily encouragement that kept us moving forward and thinking outside the box,” one student wrote. “He was always prepared, created an engaging environment, and guided us step by step. He made sure no one faced challenges alone. His impact extends beyond the classroom, and I’m deeply grateful to have learned from him.”
Wange will be honored during employee convocation in the fall. For the first time, two employees were selected for the award. The other recipient is Kevin Kanorr, respiratory care practitioner faculty.
For more information about the mathematics degree program, visit Mohave.edu/Mathematics. Registration for the fall semester is now open, so students are encouraged to sign up before classes fill up. First step is to create a student account at FutureBighorn.com.
Anyone looking for more information about the enrollment process can contact the Admissions team at Mohave.edu/Admission. The fall 2026 semester begins August 17.
About Mohave College
Since 1971, Mohave College has been transforming lives by helping students earn degrees and certificates that lead to better careers and brighter futures. Most alumni stay right here in Mohave County, strengthening the local workforce, fueling economic growth, and giving back to the communities they call home. The College delivers an estimated $199 million annual economic impact to the region and supports over 3,000 jobs in industries ranging from healthcare to the arts. Alumni contribute $158 million each year in additional income to local communities, and 96% of graduates say Mohave prepared them well for their careers or further education. Whether you’re starting your journey or advancing your skills, Mohave College is here to help you own your future. Learn more at Mohave.edu/ImprovingLives.
Jay Wange, mathematics faculty, was selected as one of two employees to receive the Ellen Licari Service to Students Award.