FIYou: Shalimar G. Moreno


Shalimar Moreno

Name: Shalimar G. Moreno

Hometown: Miami

Job Title/Department: Environmental Education and Outreach Coordinator for the School of Environment, Arts and Society (SEAS) in the College of Arts, Sciences & Education

Campus: Biscayne Bay Campus

What do you do at FIU, in a nutshell?: I coordinate educational programs at SEAS to include students, members of our university and the community to learn about science, biology, coastal ecosystems, and sustainability through hands-on activities.

Number of years at FIU: 3 weeks

What do you enjoy most about your job?: Spreading the message of protecting and conserving our environment to others. It’s amazing being able to work with young students and sharing my love for nature. I know that we’re helping to give them the knowledge and tools to be able to handle environmental issues that will affect their future.

What do you think students and your fellow faculty/staff should know about your department?: The School of Environment, Arts and Society offers many academic programs for students from the natural sciences, social sciences to humanities. There are many opportunities for students to get involved and gain critical research experience in their field.

Where is your favorite spot on campus? Why?: The beach by Biscayne Bay. Along the mangroves there are a few openings where you get a beautiful view of the water that is bordered by Oleta River State Park and the Miami skyline. In this little peak into nature you can find birds, small critters and fish which always fascinates me at how much wildlife is right here at our campus.

What is one thing you wish everyone knew about FIU?:  That FIU is a public research university between two national parks, Biscayne National Park and the Everglades National Park, which puts us in a prime location to do cutting edge research in our natural environment. We have incredible facilities like the Aquarius Reef Base, the world’s only underwater research laboratories in the world, the Wall of Wind facility, capable of simulating a Category 5 hurricane, a Dive Safety Program that offers training to FIU researchers in AAUS scientific diving and medical care, as well as the Wertheim Conservatory, a greenhouse that is open for the public to visit and learn about tropical plants.

How is FIU “Worlds Ahead”?: By having a diverse and inclusive group of researchers and students working together, we are tackling some of the most complex issues our society is facing. We value student learning, innovation and collaboration and provide opportunities for students of underrepresented minorities to reach their full potential in their professional careers. There are many opportunities and scholarships for students of all backgrounds to join and study what they’re passionate about.

Family snapshot: I was raised in a Colombian household with my mom, grandmother, and uncle. I have an 11 year-old black Labrador called Balu, who is the cutest and best doggo there ever was.

Word that best describes you: Driven

First paying job:  ILL Assistant – Federal Work Study Student

Favorite TV show: Game of Thrones

Your proudest accomplishment: Advancing my diving career to do scientific diving with different researchers and organizations. I continue my diving by doing coral restoration work in the Florida Keys and actively giving back to our imperiled coral reefs.

What do you do when you are not working at FIU?: I’m out on an adventure with my pup. I love walking him on the beach and doing yoga.