Mauricio Benard

Current position and employer: Corporate Secretariat Consultant, Office of the Secretary, Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)

Hometown: Guatemala City, Guatemala

Current City: Washington, DC

Why did you choose McCourt? My moral compass is oriented toward service to others and building a more just world. This is the reason I studied at Georgetown University. I believe the McCourt School of Public Policy is an institution that builds the leaders that the world needs and enables young leaders to become better citizens. I deeply respect and admire the moral principles and academic discipline of Jesuits, and I want to join the movement for creating more opportunities for the most in need and the humblest people of the world.

What professional/ work experience did you have prior to coming to McCourt? As a former Guatemalan Diplomat, I was appointed as Counselor at the Permanent Mission of Guatemala to the Organization of American States (OAS), based in DC. I led initiatives focused on strengthening the rule of law, representative democracy, and public security to address transnational organized crime. I was also elected as Vice-Chair of the Committee on Hemispheric Security of the Permanent Council of the OAS

With over 15 years of experience in diplomacy and policy advisory roles, I specialize in navigating complex regulatory and geopolitical landscapes across Latin America and the Caribbean. My expertise spans strategy, fundraising, building strategic partnerships, and multilateral negotiations—delivering results through influence, precision, and purpose.

What was the best part of your experience? I believe it is a privilege to be a Hoya student. I’ve learned that good policy is not only about sound technical practice and solid data, but also about making the right ethical decisions for the common good. Studying at Georgetown as a part-time student can be overwhelming while working full time, but it is a challenge that will transform the way you think and see the world. 

Student organization involvement while at McCourt: Head of Strategic Partnerships, Latin American and the Caribbean Policy Association (LAPA)

Undergraduate University, degree, and major: University Rafael Landí­var, Guatemala, Licentiate Degree, Political Science

Hobbies/ Interests: I enjoy biking around D.C., discovering new places, and hunting for the best ice cream spots. On Sundays, I often join the Malcolm X “Drum Circle” at Meridian Hill Park. I’m passionate about reading philosophy, history, and world cultures. My academic interests include democracy and governance, inequality in developing countries, strategy, negotiation, security and defense, and policy management.

Reach out to me about: Moving to DC, finding housing options, and adapting to life in the city. I’m also happy to support future Latino students through their transition and application process.