FIYou: Doug Garland ’10


Name: Doug Garland ’10

Hometown: Miami, Fla.

Job Title/Department: Web video producer. I work in Marketing and New Media in the Division of External Relations.

Campus: Modesto A. Maidique Campus

In a nutshell: I create films for the web that show how FIU is Worlds Ahead. I make news videos that accompany articles on this site. I have made several documentaries about exceptional people and programs at FIU and I also create Worlds Ahead profile videos.

Number of years at FIU: Just shy of one year.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love using my creativity to tell the story of FIU to the world. FIU has so many amazing stories to tell and film is one of the most effective ways to tell them. I recently filmed a documentary about FIU’s research in the Everglades. It was a thrill and a challenge to follow along with FIU researchers into the river of grass and gather samples in waist-high water (while trying to keep camera gear dry). It really made me appreciate the beauty of the Everglades and the FIU researchers who are leading the way in Everglades restoration.

What do you think students and your fellow faculty/staff should know about your department?

The Division of External Relations is FIU’s outlet to the world. We have the privilege of showing the world how unique and vibrant our university is through social networking, print media and online multimedia.

Where is your favorite spot on campus? Why?

Without a doubt my favorite place on campus is the organic garden and the Nature Preserve. I love discovering places on campus that not many people know about. There is nothing quite like pulling a carrot from the organic garden and eating it. It’s the best free food on campus. The Nature Preserve actually has a decent-sized lake that is hidden in the middle of it and has no clear-cut path to access it.

What is one thing you wish everyone knew about FIU?

The Dazzlers.

How is FIU “Worlds Ahead”?

FIU is Worlds Ahead because of its students, alumni and faculty who are constantly raising the bar higher and higher. I get the privilege of meeting these people here…people who are creating real change in our communities and the world. FIU is truly making a difference on a global scale with thousands of alumni and researchers working all around the world.

Family snapshot:

I am the youngest of three brothers. I have two nephews and one niece, all of whom are the most adorable things ever. My wonderful parents were nice enough to get me through college, which I am very thankful for.

Word that best describes you: Aficionado.

First paying job: The Sticklies Stationary. I would create customized stationary with stick figures on it.

Favorite TV show: The Twilight Zone.

What is playing on your iPod?

Jahfe, White Lies, M83, Deep Purple.

Your proudest accomplishment:

Completing two documentaries for the last Worlds Ahead event and screening them for an audience of more than 400. The two films I was involved in creating were: Achieving Environmental Balance: Everglades and Inspiring Real Change: Sweetwater.

What do you do when you are not working at FIU?

Making short films, restoring old bicycles and playing guitar.