A Conversation With Mauricio Franco

By Kevin Mackiewicz, Staff Writer

When the Prince of Wales, Duke of Rothesay, created a new cultural tourism initiative in northern Scotland, his team imported a Strayer University alumnus from the United States to lend a hand. Now, Mauricio Franco (MBA ’06), marketing manager and administrator for North Highland Connections, plays a key role in exposing rural Scottish communities to the artistic side of life.

What made you decide to relocate from Washington, D.C., to Scotland?
My boss at my previous job was offered the job as chief executive officer of North Highland Connections, and he asked me if I wanted to work with him. It was a big decision for me because I had never been to Scotland and was already well-established in D.C., but I knew this was a great life opportunity. I also knew I could make a difference.

How does your charitable organization help the residents of northern Scotland?
North Highland Connections was established in 2007 to promote arts and culture to the rural communities scattered throughout the region. In addition to exposing local people to different cultures, we organize arts events and classes. We also bring to town poets, musicians, story-tellers and dramatic performers.

Why do you feel exposure to art is important?
Culture and art have been a part of human expression since prehistoric times. It’s part of who we are and who we become. We strongly believe that the influence of arts improves the way of life for everyone.

Who supports your organization?
We have a solid partnership with the Glasgow-based Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama in which we invite its teachers to lead liberal arts classes in northern Scotland. The students from the northern region receive the unique opportunity to work one-on-one with world-renowned instructors and they are able to perform for public audiences. This is a great experience not just for the students, but also for the community members who get to watch.

What is the impact on the residents in your region?
Tremendous. For example, one student recently enrolled in the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama after graduating from high school. North Highland Connections made it possible for him to realize his talent since the teachers quickly recognized his beautiful voice.

Aside from art and culture, how does your organization support local communities?
We are working on a tourism initiative in northern Scotland. The goal is to bring more tourists to the small town while exposing them to cultural performances. At the same time, employment will be brought to this region as tourism increases. North Highland Connections is helping create the right jobs.

How did you come to realize the importance of the arts in your own life?
Traveling has truly enriched my life. Everywhere I go I get to experience a new culture. I came to realize how different life is in many places around the world. My job allows me to use my experiences from living in South America, North America and Europe to enlighten those living in the Scottish Highlands.

How does your MBA give you an advantage in your field?
I use my degree to help me in the office in the areas of accountancy, marketing and administration. The degree gave me up-to-date knowledge and understanding of the new tendencies in global management. A lot of competition exists in the professional world and earning a degree definitely made the difference for me.