Love and Helfert Join Ray Kavanaugh Career Center Leadership at Purdue HTM

Author: Abby Lillpop

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – The White Lodging-J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) at Purdue University is pleased to announce the appointments of Samantha (Sam) Love as the new Director of Industry Engagement and Professional Development and René Helfert as the Career Center Coordinator for the Ray Kavanaugh Career Center.

The Ray Kavanaugh Career Center plays a vital role in preparing Purdue HTM students for successful careers in hospitality, tourism, retail, financial counseling, and sales. The center provides a range of services, including resumé and cover letter assistance, interview preparation, internship and job search support, and networking opportunities with industry professionals. Through its dedicated team and strong industry connections, the Career Center ensures that students are well-equipped for the evolving demands of the workforce.

Samantha Love: Director of Industry Engagement and Professional Development

As the Director of Industry Engagement and Professional Development, Sam Love will lead efforts to strengthen partnerships between Purdue HTM and industry leaders. Her role focuses on creating opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience through internships, career fairs, and mentorship programs. She will also oversee initiatives to enhance students’ professional readiness through career coaching and skill-building workshops.

Love brings a wealth of experience in student support and academic services. Prior to joining HTM, she spent eight years in Purdue’s athletics department, serving in multiple academic support roles, including Director of Football Academics and Director of the Center for Academic Vision and Enrichment (CAVE). In these positions, she provided guidance and mentorship to student-athletes, ensuring their success both academically and professionally. Before her tenure at Purdue Athletics, Love worked as a high school English and Journalism teacher, where she developed a strong passion for education and student development.

“I’m excited to step into this role and work alongside our talented students, faculty, and industry partners,” said Love. “Connecting students with meaningful opportunities and helping them build strong career foundations is something I’m truly passionate about.”

René Helfert: Career Center Coordinator

René Helfert joins the Ray Kavanaugh Career Center as the Career Center Coordinator, where she will provide personalized career services to students. Her responsibilities include resumé and cover letter reviews, interview coaching, internship exploration, and professional development guidance.

Helfert brings extensive experience in career services and student support. Before joining Purdue HTM, she worked with undergraduate students in Purdue’s Agricultural and Biological Engineering department and assisted students at Brigham Young University in securing internships and post-graduation employment. Her diverse background includes roles in higher education, public television, the cruise-line industry, and the film sector, equipping her with a unique perspective on career development. Helfert holds a B.A. in Television and Film Production from Brigham Young University.

“I am passionate about helping students navigate their career paths and discover opportunities that align with their skills and aspirations,” said Helfert. “I look forward to supporting Purdue HTM students as they prepare for their futures in this dynamic industry.”

With the addition of Love and Helfert, the Ray Kavanaugh Career Center continues its commitment to providing students with the tools and connections needed to thrive in their professional journeys. Their expertise and dedication will further enhance the center’s ability to support students in achieving their career goals.