The ISPA Foundation Announces 2012 Recipient of the Dr. Mary Tabacchi Scholarship

The International SPA Association (ISPA) Foundation is pleased to announce Florida Gulf Coast University student Carmen Nash as the 2012 recipient of the Dr. Mary Tabacchi Scholarship. Nash is enrolled in the university’s resort and hospitality management program. As a beneficiary of the scholarship she will receive $2,500 toward her education as well as being recognized on the main stage at the 2012 ISPA Conference & Expo, Oct. 15-17 at Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee, Fla.

“We are thrilled to honor Carmen Nash as the fifth recipient of the Dr. Mary Tabacchi Scholarship. Her passion for the spa industry is evident and we believe that she will make a great addition to the spa community,” said ISPA Foundation President Jeff Kohl. “We are excited to be given the opportunity to mentor her as she pursues her future endeavors.”

Upon learning of the honor, Nash said, “I believe that with the assistance of this scholarship, I will be able to continue my pursuit of higher education in the spa industry. I will be able to graduate with my bachelor’s degree and begin pursuing my next educational goal of becoming a licensed esthetician. My aspirations are now very tangible, and I am so deeply thankful to the International SPA Association Foundation.”

Nash’s interest in the spa industry began at the age of 18 when she began working as a receptionist with a local day spa. She immediately fell in love with the spa industry and began to see the array of opportunities available. Her passion since has only increased. Nash hopes to one day become a spa director, trainer, educator or owner.

The scholarship is named in honor of industry pioneer and Cornell University Associate Professor Mary H. Tabacchi, Ph.D., R.D. The Dr. Mary Tabacchi Scholarship was created by the ISPA Foundation to provide a permanent resource for the growth and sustainability of the spa industry.

“I am pleased that Carmen has received the Mary Tabacchi scholarship. She has worked hard to achieve both practical and academic credentials in this field,” said Dr. Tabacchi. “It will be exciting to see her progress as she moves toward her goals in the spa and wellness industry.”

For more information on the Dr. Mary Tabacchi Scholarship visit the ISPA Foundation website.