Trailblazer Spotlight: Zachary Ranes, Business Analyst

“Don’t take for granted this time of your life because it is unique and it will be over before you know it.”

Zachary (Zak) Ranes  is the College of Nursing’s Business Analyst in the Office of Finance, Administration and Human Resources.

Ranes’ journey began after moving from Ohio to attend Trinity College of Florida. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Biblical Theology, he returned to Ohio, where he worked as a youth pastor for two years. Then, he accepted a position as the Registrar and Assistant Dean at Trinity College of Florida. He worked there for six years before beginning at USF in 2014.

In his current role at the college, Ranes’ expertise betters the college and helps his colleagues, who mutually say they are thankful he’s on their team.

Project Manager Emily Kent said, “He is incredibly knowledgeable and hardworking, and he has an eye and knack for excellence.”

Shawn Afflick, Sophia Ramesar, Emily Kent and Zachary Ranes

“I’m incredibly lucky to have called him my coworker and a better person for being able to call him my friend,” she added.

He works closely with Academic Affairs on enrollment projections and faculty assignments. He serves as the academic course scheduler and creates the course listings each semester. In addition, Ranes assists with the collection and aggregation of data for strategic decisions.

Ranes says one of his biggest professional accomplishments was completing a five-year college proforma and revenue projection model. This was ultimately used to help predict the budgetary impact of changes in programs and enrollment.

“I have enjoyed the freedom and flexibility to think outside of the box to find new and innovative ways to approach tasks,” said Ranes. His favorite part of his career at USF is the plethora of opportunities and the ability to contribute.

Assistant Dean of Finance and Administration Jessica Gelabert said his talent shines with each project he completes, “He has a large breath of knowledge and a strong work ethic. I am proud to call Zak a colleague.”

Ranes message to the college’s Trailblazers: “What I loved most about my college experience were the experiences and relationships I built along the way and carry with me to this day. Don’t take for granted this time of your life because it is unique and it will be over before you know it.”

Story by Cassidy Delamarter