What Marco Rubio's Speech on Ancient Greece Reveals About Leadership, Business and America's Future

Augusta University's Dr. Rick Franza examines the importance of ambition, ethics and international trade in a changing political landscape.

Oct 22, 2026

2 min

Richard Franza, PhD

What can ancient Greece teach modern America about leadership, economic success and the future of business?



That question is at the center of a recent commentary by Rick Franza, PhD, professor at Augusta University's James M. Hull College of Business, published in Augusta Business Daily earlier this month.


In his article, "Marco Rubio's Look Back to Move Us Forward: What He Nailed and What He Missed," Franza examines a speech delivered by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Athens, Greece, and considers its implications for American businesses, leadership and international relations.



Franza explores Rubio's emphasis on ambition, competition, innovation and risk-taking, connecting these themes to the characteristics that have historically contributed to economic development and business success.


He also identifies two important considerations he believes deserved greater attention: the role of morality and ethics in leadership and the importance of international trade to economic prosperity.


"I am not saying we should be driven by greed and vanity, but rather be willing to continue to strive rather than waiting for others to catch up."


Franza's commentary offers a perspective on how lessons from history can inform contemporary discussions about business leadership, economic policy and America's relationships with its international partners.


As political and economic debates continue, Franza can help journalists explore the intersection of government policy, business competitiveness, ethical leadership and international commerce.


If you're interested in speaking with Dr. Rick Franza about business leadership, economic policy, international trade and the relationship between politics and business, simply click on his profile to arrange an interview today.

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Richard Franza, PhD

Richard Franza, PhD

Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management, Hull College of Business

Dr. Franza focuses on process improvement, supply chain management, and technology transfer.

ManagementOperations ResearchEntreprenuershipIntentional LeadershipHigher Education Leadership