Two Florida International University (FIU) alumni working in Major League Soccer (MLS) credit their education from FIU with preparing them for careers in one of the world’s fastest-growing sports leagues.
Gabriel Gabor and Marisabel Muñoz, both School of Communication graduates, now play key roles in MLS communications, contributing to the league’s international storytelling, brand development and fan engagement at a time of unprecedented global expansion. As they both prepare to embark on one of the biggest global sporting events coming to Miami, they both reflect on how their time being a student of FIU’s College of Communication, Architecture + the Arts (CARTA) has prepared them to kick off the FIFA World Cup 2026.
CARTA Foundation Builds Versatile Communicators
For Gabor, the breadth of his CARTA education provided the foundation for a career in sports communications that has spanned nearly three decades.
“My journalism track at CARTA was well rounded as I got to learn about different disciplines, like video production, magazine editing, law & ethics, and other elements of the communications spectrum that came in handy even at my very first job,” Gabor said. “These are skills I continue to use in my day-to-day work.”
Muñoz said her experience at FIU prepared her to thrive in a constantly evolving, high-pressure environment like professional sports.
“My time at FIU’s CARTA laid the foundation for working in a fast-paced environment like Major League Soccer,” she said. “It taught me how to think creatively but also strategically—how to communicate clearly, and adapt quickly, which is essential in sports where the news cycle never stops.”
Witnessing the Evolution of Major League Soccer
Both alumni have seen MLS grow from its early development stages into a globally recognized league featuring international stars and expanding audiences.
Gabor began his MLS career in 1998 with the Miami Fusion, during a period when the league was still establishing its identity in North America.
“Strong storytelling and branding was not optional, it was a necessity,” Gabor said. “We had to share our narrative with media, fans, commercial partners, and local authorities on a daily basis. At first, all we had was a story and a dream.”
He added that the league’s growth over nearly three decades has transformed its global standing.
“Who would have thought that almost three decades later we would grow to be one of the top soccer leagues in the world – home of its greatest player, Leo Messi?” he said.
Muñoz, who has worked at MLS for more than 20 years, described the league’s evolution as “incomparable,” particularly in how it approaches storytelling and fan engagement.
“Today, MLS is a global property with world-class players, clubs, and infrastructure,” she said. “That growth has completely transformed how we approach storytelling, branding, and fan engagement. We are building culture, connecting authentically with diverse audiences, and telling stories that resonate locally and globally.”
Fast-Paced Roles in a Global Sports Organization
In their current roles, both alumni operate in dynamic environments that span domestic and international soccer properties.
Gabor said no two days in MLS communications are the same.
“The best part of my job is that I don’t have a daily routine,” he said. “In the international communications group at the league we work on both MLS, and our international projects. On any given day, I might spend the morning working on the MLS All-Star game, and in the afternoon getting ready for a Mexico game at Chicago’s 60,000-seat Soldier Field.”
Muñoz described her role as centered on strategy, collaboration and content development across the league’s clubs and partners.
“No two days are ever the same, which is part of what makes being a part of MLS so exciting while also being a big responsibility,” she said. “My role sits at the intersection of strategy, content, and collaboration—working with our clubs, partners, and internal teams to help shape how the league shows up to media and fans.”
She also pointed to the significance of the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be hosted across multiple MLS markets.
“Especially right now, as we gear up for the FIFA World Cup 2026 to be played across 13 MLS cities, there’s a real sense of momentum across the league,” she said.
Miami Roots and Global Perspectives
Both alumni emphasized the importance of FIU’s diverse community and Miami’s global identity in shaping their professional perspectives.
Gabor said FIU’s multicultural environment provided a natural advantage for working in international sports communications.
“Attending a culturally diverse university like FIU provided me with a great base for my career path,” he said. “I can’t think of a job where my multicultural background and education was not a major asset.”
Muñoz also highlighted the connection between South Florida and the global game, noting the region’s increasing influence within MLS.
“Being connected to Miami and the FIU community, particularly as a member of the Kopenhaver Center Leadership Council, has also been particularly complementary in my role at MLS,” she said. “South Florida has always been a gateway to the global game, and you see that reflected in the league today more than ever.”
“Marisabel Muñoz and Gabriel Gabor are consummate communications professionals,” celebrates Dr. Lillian Lodge Kopenhaver, Executive Director of the Kopenhaver Center for the Advancement of Women, “I have watched their amazing careers and am so very proud of both of them for what they have achieved, and seeing them mentor the next generation of storytellers…they are indeed the best role models, and represent us exceedingly well,” she continues.
Advice for FIU Students Entering Sports Communications
Both alumni encouraged current CARTA students interested in sports careers to focus on experience, adaptability and relationship-building.
Gabor advised students to pursue hands-on opportunities early.
“Intern and volunteer,” he said. “Just about every entry-level colleague at MLS Communications interned or volunteered with a professional or college sports team. And make sure you can write well. If possible, become fully bilingual and bicultural.”
Muñoz emphasized curiosity and professional networking as key to long-term success.
“Stay curious and be adaptable,” she said. “The industry is constantly changing, so being open to learning and evolving is key. Also, don’t underestimate the value of relationships—your network and your reputation matter. And finally, be willing to say yes to opportunities.”
FIU Alumni at the Center of a Global Game
As Major League Soccer continues its rapid international expansion, FIU CARTA alumni like Gabor and Muñoz remain at the center of how the league communicates its story to the world.
Their careers reflect both the evolution of MLS and the role FIU plays in preparing graduates for leadership in global media and sports industries.
