In a first for Walt Whitman, as part of their community service, Whitman seniors Ashley Marx and Stephanie Bailey teamed up to help out the NY Islanders Media Relations Department at one of their biggest events. Whenever the Islanders face off against the Rangers, it’s all hands on deck for one of the most sought-after tickets on the Island.

 

The effort was coordinated by Whitman business teacher Mr. Lee Nober, who teaches the department’s sports marketing classes. The girls’ experience exposed them to a variety of sports marketing and sports management techniques and strategies. “The Islanders’ Game Day volunteer program provides our students with an up-close and personal look into the world of professional sports management, sports marketing, and career exploration,” said Mr. Nober  “It’s fascinating, fun, and educational–a true hat-trick learning experience.”

 

Community service is something that Ashley and Stephanie have been involved in for many years. Ashley has volunteered her time to teach PAL cheerleading for young girls, and Stephanie has been volunteering at vacation bible school as well as at the annual Jacob Marley Foundation Christmas party. 

 

One of the more unusual and unexpected experiences came, not when the girls were ushered to seventh row center seats for the second half, but when a group of service men and women entered through the gates at which the girls were stationed and asked for a hug. It was later explained by the commander that these young soldiers were on their first outing after being hospitalized for months with combat injuries, and a hug meant the world to them.

 

Both seniors are off to college next fall. Ashley intends to study psychology at Lynn University in Florida, while Stephanie is interested in studying marketing and public relations when she begins her studies at St. Francis College in Brooklyn. “The whole experience was fun and rewarding,” said Stephanie. “I’d definitely do it again,” echoed Ashley.”