A commitment to students: Sean Mangan receives 2026 George Barbour award

Congratulations to Professor Sean Mangan, recipient of the 2026 George Barbour Award for Good Faculty-Student Relations. What makes this honor especially meaningful is that nominees are selected exclusively by students and alumni-those who have experienced firsthand the impact of a faculty member's dedication.

Students at the University of Cincinnati Donald P. Klekamp College of Law were eager to share why Professor Mangan stands out.

Pat Benjatikul, a 3L, highlighted Mangan's ability to build strong connections and meet students where they are: "Professor Mangan should be celebrated for this award because of his ability to connect with students. He understands what each student needs and explains difficult concepts in familiar terms, which makes communication easy. I always feel like he's looking out for me and my classmates."

Sydney Michael, also a 3L, emphasized Mangan's commitment beyond the classroom: "Not only is he a great professor, he pours into his students and the program. You won't find anyone who cares more about what they're doing."

Professor Mangan, a professor of practice, serves as director of the college's Entrepreneurship and Community Development Clinic. His teaching focuses on the practice of law in non-litigation settings, including contract drafting, client counseling, and corporate governance. Before joining the faculty, he served as senior vice president of human resources at MED3000, a healthcare technology and medical practice management company, where he advised senior executives on employee benefits and employment policies.

Professor Sean Mangan

Earlier in his career, Mangan practiced law at Graf + Stiebel, focusing on executive compensation, employee benefits, and representing closely held businesses. He also worked as a labor and employment attorney at Frost Brown Todd and Hunton & Williams.

Mangan earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Notre Dame before serving as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he achieved the rank of captain. He later received his Juris Doctor from the University of Virginia School of Law.

The George Barbour Award for Good Faculty-Student Relations recognizes faculty members who demonstrate exceptional commitment to student engagement, mentorship, and support. Recipients are known for their involvement with students both inside and outside the classroom, active participation in student organizations, sensitivity to diverse student needs, and dedication to advising and mentoring-even beyond graduation. Above all, award winners earn the trust and respect of their students through genuine care for their personal and professional growth.

Featured top image of Professor Sean Mangan at the Donald P. Klekamp College of Law at the University of Cincinnati.

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