WCHP students honored as ‘outstanding future professionals’ by Maine industry association

Two students from the University of New England’s Westbrook College of Health Professions have been recognized as Outstanding Future Professionals by the Maine Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (MAHPERD). 

Emily Factor (Applied Exercise Science, ’24) and Hannah Richardson (M.S.A.T., ’26) were honored at the association’s 79th annual conference for their achievements in health, sport, and education.

Factor, who will graduate in December, has been active in UNE’s athletic community, playing on the club ice hockey and field hockey teams and earning a minor in coaching. Factor turned her classroom training into real-world experience by serving as JV head coach and varsity assistant coach for the girls’ hockey team at Cheverus High School, helping the program achieve two state championships.

“I am both truly thankful and honored to receive this award from MAHPERD,” said Factor, who is originally from Brunswick. It means so much to me to be recognized, and I couldn’t have gotten here without the support from my professors at the University of New England.” 

Factor said she plans to pursue a Doctorate in Physical Therapy after graduation.

Hannah Richardson ’26, a health sciences major from Ellsworth, will complete her undergraduate degree this spring and continue her studies in UNE’s accelerated Master of Science in Athletic Training program. During her time at UNE, as part of her minor, she completed a coaching internship with the girls’ varsity soccer team at Thornton Academy, where she gained valuable leadership and communication skills.

“Being nominated for this award truly means a lot to me, as it feels like a culmination of all my personal and professional growth at UNE,” Richardson said, adding that she hopes to pursue a career in sports medicine after completing her master’s degree.

Richardson also received the Wes Jordan Athletic Training Scholarship at the recent fall meeting of the Maine Athletic Trainers’ Association.

Katie Hawke, M.S., a clinical professor in UNE’s Department of Exercise and Sport Performance, nominated both students for the MAHPERD award, praising their dedication and professionalism. 

“Emily and Hannah have shown remarkable growth and commitment to their fields,” Hawke said.