A Little Bit of My Background

Marco Puccia is a blogger and consultant at the crossroads of technology, business, and global affairs. His interests and expertise are varied, which allows him to look at complex problems in unique and innovative ways. Through deep analysis and creative problem-solving, Marco always brings a unique perspective to any discussion. While his academic focus has largely been economic development in sub-Saharan Africa, he also has a strong focus and interest in international policy, economy, business, social media, social entrepreneurship, and social innovation.

Educational Background

Marco has been privileged to a well-rounded education. He attended Culver Military Academy for high school where he earned Honors in Global Studies for an independent research paper he wrote and presented on the economic development success story of Botswana. He also excelled in the military system, growing as a disciplined individual and leader. Marco continued his education at American University’s School of International Service, where he studied economic development with a particular focus on sub-Saharan Africa. During his time at American University, he spent a semester living and working in Nairobi, Kenya where he briefly attended the United States International University (USIU). Marco graduated from American University cum laude and was awarded the Annette Langdon Award for Social Justice by the School of International Service in honor of his work advancing innovative approaches to global development.

Working Background

His working background extends across the public, private, and independent sectors. He served as the youngest intern in US Senator Richard Lugar‘s office, worked in the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration, and assisted in building web-based platforms for governments to track foreign assistance at Development Gateway. During his time in Kenya, Marco worked for a local e-commerce company called MamaMikes.com — a for-profit social enterprise offering a transparent, accountable, and cost effective alternative to traditional cash-transfer remittances. After college he started a company called International Transparency Solutions to help combat corruption and build confidence, security, and transparency around investment in the developing world. Marco’s work with Transparency Solutions, in addition to his full-time blogging about social innovation, provided opportunities to attend and speak at conferences across the country. Equipped with extensive experience and savvy in online marketing and social media, Marco started Shift Impact to support businesses and nonprofits in using online tools to maximize their impact.

Marco is also a triathlete and competitive cyclist with KindHuman Sports and is currently training to compete in a Half Ironman and Marathon this year.

Awards and Recognitions

• StartingBloc Social Innovation Fellow
• Echoing Green Fellowship Semi-Finalist
• Feast Fellow, All Day Buffet
• American Delegate, Global Engagement Summit
• Annette Langdon Award for Social Justice, American University
• American University Academic Honors: Cum Laude; Alpha Lambda Delta; National Society of Collegiate Scholars; Omicron Delta Epsilon (International Honor Society for Economics); Sigma Iota Rho (International Honor Society for International Studies)
• Honors in Global Studies, Culver Military Academy

Past Speaking Engagements

Related Publications

Giving Back Is His Business (American University)