Sean Mangold, director of food & beverage at Fish Camp's Tenaya Lodge, was recently honored with the prestigious 2012 William F. Noli Award from the Fresno County Regional Occupational Program (ROP) for his work in creating a culinary vocational curriculum and program at Yosemite High School.

The annual Noli Award recognizes business leaders for outstanding service and dedication to ROP and career technical education.

Creating the Tenaya Lodge and Yosemite High culinary connection was a perfect fit for Mangold, who attended YHS in the 1980s.

"When I learned about the culinary program at Yosemite Highhow Tenaya Lodge could get involved," Mangold said. "Becoming a ROP advisor and contributing to the school's culinary training program is rewarding personally and professionally, as we've had a number of Yosemite High students complete the program and come work at the lodge."

Around 20 Yosemite High School students per year get the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of high-production gourmet culinary service under the tutelage of Mangold and Tenaya Lodge Executive Chef Frederick Clabaugh. The Tenaya Lodge team also visits the school several during the school year for culinary demos and instruction.

For many students the highlight of the experience is working alongside Chef Clabaugh and his team during Tenaya Lodge's preparations for its annual Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop and Contest.