The high school’s Business Department has announced that entrepreneur and former New York State 42nd District Senator Michael Martucci is the second inductee to its Business Wall of Fame.
Mr. Martucci, a Class of 2003 alumnus who lives in New Hampton with his family, is the owner of Transportation Holdings LLC, a real estate holding company which includes commercial, residential, and agricultural properties as well as a community newspaper. He has remained active in the greater Minisink Valley community, including with school district events and activities.
Mr. Martucci, who holds a master’s degree in business administration and bachelor’s degree in business from Marist University and an associate’s degree in business administration and management from SUNY Orange, felt it was important for all students to take some business courses while in high school because of the real-world skills that are taught which will help them be best prepared for their futures.
“Business courses are important because students learn essential concepts that are highly valuable in the real world,” he said. “My participation in courses offered by the Business Education Department helped me understand how businesses operate, how to make informed decisions and how to develop and execute business strategy. Business courses also teach the importance of giving back and making a positive impact on society and place a strong emphasis on business ethics and integrity. Business education courses provide a foundation for working as a team to solve problems, plan events and reach common goals--all experiences that are key to success in any professional setting.”
Like many current and former students, Mr. Martucci was a member of the High School’s chapter of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA).
“FBLA is a fantastic organization that focuses on developing leadership, communication, and business skills in students, he said. “As a member of FBLA, I had the opportunity to take on a leadership role in our chapter and beyond which helped me build confidence in leading teams, projects, and events. I also connected with like-minded peers, industry professionals and business leaders which provided me professional opportunities. By participating in competitive events, I was able to apply principles learned in business education classes to real-world scenarios.”
Like many in the business world, Mr. Martucci's success affords him an opportunity to share some important advice with students.
“One of the most valuable pieces of advice that I have received is to prioritize building and maintaining strong professional relationships rooted in trust," he said. “Building and maintaining good relationships with customers, employees and business partners is the foundation for success. Without trust, communication, and respect it is impossible to meet with long-term success."
The Business Wall of Fame was erected in 2024 and is one of four walls of fame within the building honoring alumni of achievement. A plaque honoring Mr. Martucci, which was created by Christopher Tuthill's technology students, will be installed shortly.
“Our students have gone on to accomplish such wonderful things and we wanted to immortalize that,” said RoseMarie Cricchio, the High School’s Business Department chairperson. “We hope current students can feel inspired by the accomplishments of our alumni.”