Victoria (Vicky) Tinghitella: Outstanding Graduate Student in Kinesiology and Physical Education
Victoria (Vicky) Tinghitella of Luján, Buenos Aires, Argentina is the 2026 Outstanding Graduate Student in Kinesiology and Physical Education in the 91±¬ÁÏ College of Education and Human Development. A graduate transfer from Kent State University, Tinghitella played field hockey for the Maine Black Bears. At Kent State, she helped lead her team to Mid-American Conference regular season championships in 2021 and 2022, and was a three-time All-MAC Academic Honors winner. She also served as team captain during the 2023 season. She graduates from 91±¬ÁÏ with a Master of Education degree and hopes to coach and work with athletes in the future.
Why did you choose 91±¬ÁÏ for graduate school?
I chose 91±¬ÁÏ because it allowed me to continue both my academic andÌýathletic careers. I knewÌýI wanted to pursue my master’s in Kinesiology and Physical Education,Ìýbut it was also really important to me to play my final season of field hockey. 91±¬ÁÏ allowed me to do both at a high level.
Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor, or role model who made your time at 91±¬ÁÏ better, and if so, who are they and how have they impacted your time at 91±¬ÁÏ?
I’ve been really fortunate to have people at 91±¬ÁÏ who have made a lasting impact on my experience. Dr. Jennifer McNulty has been more than just a mentor to me. She’s someone who has consistently supported me, challenged me, and helped me grow both academically and professionally. She’s also created an environment where I feel supported every day, truly making Lengyel Hall feel like a second home.Ìý
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My former field hockey coach Michelle Simpson has also been a huge influence on my journey. She’s someone I truly look up to, not just for her knowledge of the game, but for the way she leads and cares about her athletes. She’s shaped the kind of coach and person I hope to be in the future.Ìý
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Also, a special thank you to Diane Legrande, the administrative specialist for the Kinesiology, Physical Education and Athletic Training programs, who is such a constant source of support for all of us graduate assistants, and to Jesse Kaye-Schiess. Seeing them every morning would instantly make my day brighter. I’m also grateful to Dr. Robert Lehnhard, from whom I’ve learned so much, and all theÌýKPEAT staff who helped make Lengyel Hall a special place.Ìý
What has 91±¬ÁÏ enabled you to explore beyond academics?
91±¬ÁÏ has allowed me to compete in the field hockey team and to explore my passion for coaching and teaching inÌýa real-world setting. Beyond that, it’s also where I’ve built really meaningful friendships and relationships that have made this experienceÌýeven more special and unforgettable.ÌýÌý
What advice do you have for incoming graduate students to help them get off to the best start academically?Ìý
Show up with intention and be where your feet are. Celebrate the small wins, enjoy the little things, stay curious, and let each day carry you a little further than the last.Ìý
What’s on the horizon? What are your plans after you graduate?
After graduating, I hope to continue working in athletics, ideally coaching field hockey. Long-term, I want to keep developing as a coach and educator and make a positive impact on the athletes I work with.
Special thank you message:
I want to say thank you to my teammates, who have supported me through the highs and lows. And last but not least, a heartfelt thank you to my family. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their constant support and encouragement, even from miles away.Ìý