Zachariah (Zach) Mandell grew up in an Orthodox family in central Pennsylvania, and from an early age, he was singing with his family in the choir loft. His collegiate studies took a rather academic and esoteric bent, as he earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in ‘Classics and Ancient Mediterranean Studies’ and History from Penn State University (‘14), focusing on Greek and Latin language and literature, and a Master of Arts degree in Classics from the University at Buffalo (‘17). Music remained a constant, as he directed choirs at the local parishes while in school and played the trombone in university ensembles. 

His combined love of music, liturgy, and language was a large part of his decision to study at St Vladimir’s Seminary (M.Div. ‘20). As a student, he focused on studying liturgical music and conducting, participating in the concerts of seminary ensembles, and singing (and arranging music for) the Octet album Arise! Music of the Psalms.

After seminary, he was hired as the Director of Music at St Mary’s Orthodox Cathedral (OCA) in Minneapolis, MN. After four years in Minnesota, he returned to St Vladimir’s Seminary in 2024 as the Director of Admissions, Financial Aid, and Alumni Relations, as well as to join the music department as Assistant Director of Chapel Music.

When he has a little downtime, you can find him taking walks about town, exploring interesting culinary avenues, watching some football, or gardening.

He is excited to engage with students from their earliest explorations of seminary education, during their time at St Vladimir’s Seminary in class, in choir, and in life, and as alumni in their work and ministries. Especially given Zach’s deep family ties to the Seminary, he is honored and humbled to be a part of its continuing work and ministry.