As the strategy manager for student success, Zach Evans works within MCAN’s Higher Education Innovation department to strengthen higher education systems and the work of college personnel practitioners by offering professional development, utilizing research and data, encouraging innovation, and providing technical assistance.

Zach's career in higher education spans nearly 10 years, primarily at Central Michigan University. His background includes the positions of academic adviser, student affairs researcher, and assistant director for the CMU Honors Program. Most recently, Zach served as director for CMU's ADVANCE Program, a National Science Foundation grant-funded initiative to increase the representation and advancement of women in STEM fields. Also, as a member of the university’s Engagement and Employability Research Initiative, Zach supported the design and launch of Gold Path, an institution-wide career development program that helps students identify cocurricular activities that align with their career interests.

Zach earned a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Michigan Technological University and a Master of Arts in higher education administration from CMU. His college journey was inspired by watching his mom return to school as an adult learner, looking to improve her economic situation after becoming a single mother. Seeing her love of learning gave Zach an early interest in college and a belief in the value of education. He also observed the barriers faced by adult learners, which has informed much of his higher education work. While in college, Zach developed a passion for supporting students while serving as a student conductor for the Michigan Tech Huskies Pep Band. During his senior year, this led to a shift from pursuing a career in business psychology to a pathway in education administration.

Outside of work, Zach enjoys reading, traveling, playing video games, hiking, and eating adventurous foods. His favorite moments are spent with his husband and two dogs.