I run with ideas, anticipate needs, and put out fires. I do both strategy and execution, often at the same time, and can switch rapidly. My favorite is working in dirt roads with a lot of ambiguity. 

What I do

Good Research

Working with companies, government agencies, and nonprofits, we develop comprehensive, enduring, and enriching approaches to digital privacy, security, and trust. My job is to create resources that help communities reimagine, design, and build healthy data ecosystems. 

Data Curious

Our mission is to energize people to get curious about their data. We help people ask questions, understand the answers, and feel empowered to do something about it.

Nonprofit Consultant

This is fun. I advise on communications, capacity building, strategic planning, and more. I also help philanthropists figure out where and how to give their money. Pro tip: unrestricted, multi-year gifts

Guide

I studied the Montessori method, and teachers are called guides. As expert, trained observers, we help people discover their strengths and stretch their capabilities. So, yeah, I do this, for any age!

What I used to do

Siegel Family Endowment

The Founder took a chance and hired me to lead his new family foundation. Over five years, I built a thriving team, managed complicated projects, started two public charities that bridge technology and education, and acquired one dedicated to computer science education, all while developing strong relationships internally and externally.

Facebook

Charged with strengthening ties between engineering and the academy, I built Facebook’s Academic Relations program. Kind of like an ambassador, I established new relationships with faculty and the broader computer science research community through initiatives like graduate fellowships, faculty grants, and research collaborations ... and never had to wear a suit!

Elizabeth Ann Clune Montessori School of Ithaca

Everyone should be a teacher at least once. I taught Upper Level, ages 9-12. Old enough to tie their shoes, young enough to have confidence and awe. 

Cornell University

My first job was in a dining hall but I left for concessions to watch hockey games for free. Over two decades I was all over campus: International Students & Scholars Office, Campus Information & Visitor Relations, Engineering Admissions, Alumni Affairs & Development. But the job that changed my life? Director of development for Computing & Information Science. Ask me about the capital campaign for Gates Hall. Or even better, about winning Mayor Bloomberg’s tech campus competition.

 

Where I learned

• Cornell University for undergrad
• Loyola University Maryland for grad
• Association Montessori Internationale for teaching credentials

 

Traynor resume 2023.pdf