The Emerging Professional Award honors the outstanding accomplishments of recent graduates. This award recognizes alumni who have graduated within the past ten years, and who have shown outstanding professional growth and commitment to the hospitality industry.
The award will be presented at the annual Honors & Awards Dinner that will take place in November.
The criteria for selection:
- Graduation from the Dedman College of Hospitality within the past ten years
- Outstanding professional accomplishments
- Exceptional promise for future success
- Community involvement and recognition
- Support of the Dedman College of Hospitality and Florida State University
2024 Emerging Professional Recipients
La'Quana Cooper
Assistant GM, Human Resources Manager
Aimbridge Hospitality, The Henderson Park Inn
La’Quana Cooper (2019) began her career at the Doubletree Downtown Nashville, where she gained experience in multiple roles, including Security and Sales. She later joined Henderson Park Inn as the Operations and Lofts Club Manager, eventually becoming Executive Assistant to the General Manager. By 2021, she had advanced to Human Resource Manager and is currently serving as Assistant General Manager. In addition to her impressive career, La’Quana spent six years as an Office Manager/Project Coordinator at Anderson & Associates Construction while completing her degree. She just recently accepted a new position with the Department of Defense. La’Quana’s achievements and dedication have earned her the prestigious Emerging Professional Award.
Nicole Oreo
Senior Event Manager, Catering
Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin
Nicole Oreo (2016) has made significant strides in her career at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. Over the course of seven years, she has received seven promotions and is currently the Senior Events Manager. Her journey reflects her remarkable work ethic, talent, and commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry. Nicole’s deep connection to FSU Dedman and her career success have earned her the Emerging Professional Award, celebrating her as a rising star in the field.
Jack Walker
General Manager, Bayshore Landing Marina
Suntex Marinas
Jack Walker (2020) has quickly risen through the ranks in the marina management industry. After beginning as an intern at the Manhattan Yacht Club in 2019, he became a Manager in Training at Suntex in Texas and was promoted to General Manager of Bayshore Landing Marina by 2021. Jack’s leadership and dedication to his profession have earned him the Emerging Professional Award, showcasing his achievements in the field of marina management.
Past Recipients
| Year | Recipient |
|---|---|
| 2023 | Jason Bradley |
| 2023 | Daniel Haimovich |
| 2022 | Matt Cahill |
| 2022 | Alyssa Nelson |
| 2022 | Olivia Weston |
| 2021 | Alexander Delcamp |
| 2021 | Briana Frazier |
| 2021 | Cassidy Smith |
| 2020 | Ryan Flannery |
| 2020 | Jorge Rivera |
| 2020 | Wade Stonesifer |