If you see Samantha Hickey in the hallway, ask her how she happens to have a Cavs championship ring. The new marketing assistant in the Office of Public Relations and Marketing got a few gasps when she hoisted it into view at a recent meeting of the Division of Advancement, which she joined just about a week after graduating from the University of Akron with a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Working for the Cavs’ minor league team sounds exciting. Tell us more!
Being a member of the Canton Charge game presentation team for three years while I was an undergrad was such a special experience. Having the opportunity to interact with the fans, season ticket-holders and players every weekend during the season was when I was in my prime—the championship ring was just a bonus! Mr. Gilbert was kind enough to give the entire organization championship rings after the Cavs won the 2016 NBA Championship, so now I get to sport a big rock when I go out and about.
When you saw the job description for the position in OPRM, what appealed to you?
The moment I read the job description for the public relations and marketing assistant, I knew I had found my match. While many of my classmates have been searching for social media and event-oriented jobs, I knew I wanted to write and tell stories. I’m looking forward to hearing and telling the stories of the students, staff and faculty at NEOMED.
Tell us about your family and where you’re from.
My parents have had their hands full this year. We all live in a little town named Bristol, Ohio. For those of you who are scratching your head, wondering where that is, Bristol is in Trumbull County—not too far from Warren, Ohio. I have two younger sisters, who happen to be twins, and within a 15-day period, all three of us graduated from college, then high school. I can’t forget my labradoodle, Gus, either. If you pay a visit to my office, you’ll notice that the majority of my photos are dedicated to him. He’s actually everybody’s favorite Hickey.
We know you like basketball. What are some other things people might not know about you?
My favorite "fun fact" is that I was born in Lakenheath, England. Thanks to my dad enlisting in the Air Force, I can say I have dual citizenship! I love soccer. Whether it’s a game, Columbus Crew or just a weekend rec league, I’m happy. My guilty pleasure is watching HGTV. If you haven’t watched "Living in Alaska," I’d highly recommend it!