Business students named ‘outstanding future professionals’ by Maine recreation group
Two students in the University of New England College of Business were named Outstanding Future Professionals by the Maine Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance during the organization’s 79th annual conference.
Sport and Recreation Management majors Samantha Fickett ’24 and Courtney Peltak ’25 accepted the award during a ceremony at the Samoset Resort in Rockport, Maine, on Nov. 3.
The Outstanding Future Professional award recognizes Maine undergraduate students studying health, physical education, recreation, or dance for their accomplishments and involvement in university organizations; contributions to the community; professional potential/leadership qualities; and individual accomplishments, honors, and awards.
The students were nominated for the award by Aimee Vlachos, Ed.D., CPRP, assistant teaching professor of business at UNE and director of UNE’s Outdoor Business and Innovation degree program.
“Last spring, when I was thinking about who to nominate, I knew that I could not nominate just one student. Both Courtney and Samantha have been outstanding students who have taken advantage of every opportunity at UNE to help set themselves up for success,” said Vlachos. “I’ll always remember our trip to Detroit to work for the NFL Draft.”
Peltak is a student building manager at UNE’s Harold Alfond Forum sports complex, who said she wants to pursue a career in social media marketing for a professional sports team.
“I am honored to receive this award and thank all of my professors who helped me throughout these four years, especially Drs. Kiernan Gordon and Aimee Vlachos,” she said.
Fickett recently wrapped a summer internship with the Portland Sea Dogs — Maine’s minor league affiliate of the Boston Red Sox — where she worked as a ticket office associate, ensuring fans have a smooth entry into the stadium on game day. After she graduates in December, she will begin a job with the Carolina Hurricanes.
“I’ve been provided with amazing experiences and professors who support my learning. This award has helped showcase my experiences leading me to the position I’ll be part of following graduation,” said Fickett of Dayton, Maine.
The College of Business is UNE’s newest college with a focus on experiential learning. Established in 2023, the college is Maine and New England’s innovation business school, designed to engage business students in enriching experiences that prepare them for leadership positions in some of Maine’s and the nation’s largest employers.