Franklin University Appoints Ben Blanquera as Executive in Residence for the Provost’s Office

Contact:

Sherry Mercurio
Executive Director, Office of Community Relations
(614) 947-6581
Email: sherry.mercurio@franklin.edu

Continuing its commitment to bridging academic learning with industry expertise, Franklin University proudly announces Ben Blanquera as the newest Executive in Residence (EiR) for the 2024-2025 academic year. As the EiR for the Provost’s Office, Ben’s appointment emphasizes the University’s dedication to fostering meaningful connections between students and the professional community, particularly within Central Ohio.

Since 1902, Franklin University has been a cornerstone of education workforce development in the Columbus community, equipping adult learners with the education and skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing workforce. Ben’s appointment builds on Franklin’s longstanding tradition of connecting classrooms to careers, with his role focusing on enhancing relationships between the University and local industries. By contributing his expertise and insight, Ben will help position Franklin graduates for greater success in securing experiential learning and employment opportunities. His efforts will also elevate the awareness and utilization of Franklin’s innovative microcredential and certificate programs, further supporting students' career readiness.

Currently serving as vice president of Technology and Sustainability at Rackspace Technology, Ben brings more than 35 years of experience across healthcare, manufacturing, and technology consulting. Recognized as a Premier 100 Leader by Computerworld, Ben has helped architect solutions that drive business outcomes and has actively contributed to shaping Columbus’s tech community. His involvement in the Central Ohio CIO forum and as the founder of Techlife Columbus further demonstrates his commitment to cultivating local technology talent. In his role as EiR at Franklin, Ben will work closely with faculty to ensure the University’s curriculum aligns with evolving industry needs.

Discover how Franklin University’s flexible, 100% online degree programs are designed to empower working adults to achieve their academic and career goals. Explore our innovative, career-focused offerings today at franklin.edu.

About EiR
The Executive in Residence program, established in 2020, was created to integrate the knowledge and expertise of industry leaders into Franklin University learning environment. Through the program, high-caliber professionals like Ben bring invaluable real-world insights to students and faculty, enhancing both academic and career outcomes.
 

About Franklin University

Accredited, nonprofit, and dedicated to educating adults since 1902, Franklin provides onsite course options at our Main Campus in downtown Columbus, Ohio, and is an innovator in providing personalized online education. The University offers applied in-demand undergraduate, masters, and doctorate programs that enable adult learners to achieve their educational and professional goals. Through agreements with partner institutions, the University also offers international academic programs, including its top-ranked MBA.

Franklin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and holds specialized accreditations for specific academic programs through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education, the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, and the Commission on Accreditation of Health Informatics and Information Management Education. The National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security have designated Franklin University as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education (CAE-CDE).