East Michigan News

Dr. Don Uzarski has announced his resignation as Director of the Central Michigan University Biological Station (CMUBS) on Beaver Island after 15 years of service. Dr. David Ford, Dean of the College of Science and Engineering at CMU, has appointed Dr. Kevin Pangle as the new director.

During his tenure, Dr. Uzarski led a $30 million research program in collaboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), creating 156 jobs across 13 institutions in its first year. The station also secured 23 additional externally funded research grants under his leadership.

In 2010, Dr. Uzarski became the founding director of the CMU Institute for Great Lakes Research, which now includes 33 faculty members and about 50 graduate students. Reflecting on his time at CMUBS, he expressed pride in increasing research, education, and outreach efforts: "With my two children growing up on the island, my wife Dr. Rebecca Uzarski and I share many amazing memories from our time at CMUBS."

Dr. Kevin Pangle brings extensive experience in Great Lakes research to his new role as director. He has taught and conducted research at CMUBS for twelve years and is known for his work on fisheries in Lake Michigan.

“I feel fortunate to transition into the role of director, and I am excited that the station will be an even bigger part of our lives,” said Pangle.

Dr. Pangle aims to expand partnerships, increase class offerings, and enhance student support while fostering a sense of belonging at the station: “I look forward to enhancing our ties to the Beaver Island community and providing a welcoming place where people come together to learn about and from the natural world.”

Dean Ford commented on this leadership change: “I’m grateful to Don for his sustained leadership over the last 15 years... I’m also excited to see Kevin take the reins with his experience and strategic vision.”