FIYou: Travis Stokes

Name: Travis L. Stokes ’09, MPA ’12

Hometown: Easley, South Carolina

Job Title/Department: Event coordinator, Parking and Transportation

Location/Campus: PG5 Market Station, MMC

In a nutshell: I manage parking, signage and other logistics for FIU events. I supervise a staff of eight wonderful individuals who assist with all field and office operations for daily parking events. Major special events on campus (football games, concerts and commencements) usually require parking logistics. What I love about my job is being able to give my FIU Panther passion to every guest, student, faculty and staff member so that they receive excellent service from someone who cares and has a true vested interest in the unconditional advancement of my unit and our university.

Number of years at FIU: 13

What do you enjoy most about your job? I really enjoy connecting and engaging with my coworkers and colleagues throughout the university and being able to put on some really cool special events.

What do you think your fellow Panthers should know about your department/area? Our department is really bringing some new, fun and easier access to parking and transportation throughout our FIU community. We are building programs that will allow everyone to access parking information at their fingertips.

Where is your favorite spot on campus? My favorite spot on campus would have to be the Graham University Center. I have spent so much time there in the past as a student and have so many fond memories. It’s a great place to truly see the international flavor of FIU.

Name one thing you wish everyone knew about FIU? I wish everyone knew how much FIU is vested in the community. Program such as the College of Medicine’s Neighborhood Help program, the Office of Engagement’s Education Effect, the Center for Leadership in the College of Business and others are not only a presence in the community, they are leading the research and access to quality medicine, education and leadership in South Florida.

How do you help make FIU “Worlds Ahead”? I help make our FIU Worlds Ahead by being an excellent steward of our university. Being able to deliver my passion and energy for our FIU and access to the best quality of education in the State of Florida and the world, it is my duty to make sure that everywhere I am and everyone I meet knows that FIU is the place for them.

Family snapshot: My mother and father were both born and raised in South Carolina. I have a huge family that spans the country. Our motto is “Family First.” I have a brother and a sister, both younger, and I am uncle to a wonderful niece and nephew.

Word that best describes you: Victorious

First paying job: Wendy’s

Favorite TV show: Modern Family

Your proudest accomplishment: I actually have two proud moments. The first was being able to be the first person in my family to attend and graduate from college with two degrees. The second would be this year when I donated $1,000 to the School of International and Public Affairs Auditorium Seat Campaign located in the Ruth K. and Shepard Broad Auditorium.

What do you do when you are not working at FIU? When I am not at work, I am involved in something athletic. I have been in cheerleading for 20 years, and I am judge for events nationally and globally. And I am always out and about throughout South Florida at great plays, movies and eateries.