"Conversations with Alumni" – Zachary Conine ‘03

Zachary Conine ‘03

State Treasurer - Nevada

Interviewed by Jason Orenstein '27

Treasurer Zachary Conine graduated from the Hotel School in 2003, and since then has worked in a variety of industries within the hospitality field and beyond. He began working in restaurants and casinos before progressing to focus on law and consulting in Nevada. It was then, in 2018, that he decided to run for State Office in Nevada, and is currently serving his second term as State Treasurer of Nevada.

During his time at Cornell, he enjoyed serving as the F&B Service Director of HEC 77 and Managing Director the following year. He developed key relationships during these experiences, from something as simple as chocolate strawberries. When two attendees came to him raving about the strawberries left in their room, he sent a few extra up to their room to surprise them. The next day, they came to him stating that this was some of the best hospitality they had ever experienced. The guest then helped Mr. Conine to find his first roles in Nevada, launching the rest of the career. From this experience Mr. Conine learned that hospitality is not just caviar on a plate, or an amazing view, it’s the little moments of everyday life that make an experience special.

He has carried this view on hospitality into his career and wants to remind Hotelies that caring, and showing hospitality towards others can put you on third base in any circumstance. The level of empathy that Hotelies graduate with, is unmatched, and a great strength. In addition, one of the best skills graduates of Nolan have been their communication abilities. Mr. Conine notes that as an example, best practices for Excel models may change from year to year, but the ability to communicate is timeless.

Mr. Conine has a few key tips for Hotelies. Firstly, you have no idea where your career is going to go. If you had asked him as an undergraduate what he’d be doing now, he would have told you that he’d be a manager of a restaurant or hotel. He never would’ve imagined his career would take him to Nevada, into consulting, or into public service. However, even though he didn’t anticipate this, the skills the Hotel School instilled in him helped him succeed in each role. Mr. Conine also wants to remind all current Hotelies to appreciate the time they have at Cornell and make time for the little things that bring them joy.