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Clocktower | One Community. Infinite Journeys.
GLOBAL GATHERINGS, GLOBAL IMPACT
A powerful highlight of 2025 was our alumni gathering 
at the Modern College of Business and Science (MCBS) 
in Muscat, Oman, where more than 100 alumni came 
together to celebrate their collective impact on the 
country’s future. Among them were four MBA alumni 
now serving as CEOs, each leading major initiatives 
aligned with Oman Vision 2040 across infrastructure, 
strategic development, workforce advancement and 
sector innovation.
A standout moment was meeting Harith Khamis Humaid Al Maqbali (MBA ’12), who provided a 
powerful example of how Franklin graduates are driving meaningful, nationwide progress. As CEO 
of OTaxi, his leadership is transforming mobility across the nation. By expanding digital access 
to safe, reliable transportation, OTaxi is reshaping daily life for thousands of residents and visitors.
CONVERSATIONS 
FROM COAST TO COAST
In Tampa, we visited lifelong entrepreneur 
John Messmore (B.S. Business ’67), whose 
Franklin education supported decades of 
innovation and growth. His story embodies 
resilience, curiosity and the belief that 
each new idea has the power to spark 
meaningful change.
Farther west, alumnus and Alumni 
Advisory Council member Robert Coles 
(M.S. Marketing & Communication ’03) 
helped host a gathering of Franklin 
graduates in the San Francisco Bay Area, 
bringing together professionals shaping 
some of the world’s most forward-thinking 
industries. The gathering highlighted 
the influence of Franklin alumni who are 
driving progress in technology, business 
and community leadership.
Wherever our alumni are, we want to meet them because every story adds strength 
to our shared community. - DR. SHERRY MERCURIO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY RELATIONS

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