FIYou: Zachary Trautenberg ’07

Name: Zachary Trautenberg ’07

Hometown: Miami, Fla.

Job Title/Department: IT and Marketing Coordinator, Wolfe University Center

Campus: Biscayne Bay Campus

In a nutshell: I market the Team Ropes Adventure Challenge and meeting rooms to the community. I do this through networking events and by placing advertisements both online and in print sources. I maintain a schedule of building resources, rooms, furniture and equipment. I work with students to help them plan events by reserving rooms and do marketing via the Internet. I plan special events for
 students, staff and the community. I manage and maintain the Wolfe University Center computer lab and Web site. I also order technology and offer technical support for the Wolfe University Center.

Number of years at FIU: Six-and-a-half years. From July 2003-April 2007 I was a Student Government Officer and I’ve been a WUC staff member since May 2007.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

There are two things: The first is working with the students and getting the chance to see them succeed in what they set out to accomplish. The second is marketing off campus by attending networking events and meeting members of our community.

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

That we offer a program called the Team Ropes Adventure Challenge to both groups on and off campus to strengthen their team building skills. We also host Web sites for many areas of Student Affairs at the Biscayne Bay Campus.

Where is your favorite spot on campus? Why?

What I call my secret space, which is a very tranquil seating area behind Academic II. I like it because it is quiet and no one seems to know about it.

If there is one thing you wish everyone knew about FIU, what would it be?

How amazing and majestic the Biscayne Bay Campus is and that we are Miami’s university.

Family snapshot:

I have an amazing family that is extremely loving and supporting. I live with my parents, Marci and Harvey Trautenberg. I have one younger brother earning a bachelors degree in Orlando at the University of Central Florida. I have three dogs, Bowser, Odie and Lola. I also have two cats, Elvis and Boo Boo.

Word that best describes you: Tenacious.

First paying job: A summer internship at my high school, Dr. Michael M. Krop Senior High.

Favorite TV show: “NCIS.”

Your proudest accomplishment:

In 2001, about a year after I had major back surgery, I was granted a wish by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. I asked to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange. Being the youngest person to ring the closing bell is up there on my list.

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

I love designing Web sites, photography, animals and spending time with loved ones. I truly enjoy supporting the community. I like mentoring students and advising organizations that benefit others. I try and volunteer whenever possible. I am also working on a master’s in nonprofit management from the University of Central Florida.