For Mat Franco ’10, magic has always been less about the tricks and more about fun and a connection with the audience. And whether the audience was a few friends gathered around a table, hundreds of freshmen at URI orientation sessions, thousands watching at Radio City Music Hall or millions watching on television, the URI alumnus always makes you feel like you’re the only one in the room.

That charisma, charm, energy and mastery of movement led to his big win of America’s Got Talent 2014, along with the $1 million prize and headline show in Las Vegas. Well, not to mention some card tricks, a flaming giant card, a cell phone hidden in a theater seat, some fast moving ping-pong-sized balls, a few cups and a trick that combined a traditional deck of cards with giant cards held by audience members.

Franco, who started doing magic when he was 4, and majored in marketing at URI, has said it was URI that gave him the tools to become a businessman, whether it was marketing classes or working as a freshman orientation leader.

Peg Boyd, assistant dean of the URI College of Business, said there was a steady buzz around the college throughout the competition as faculty and students rallied behind Franco. “Our pride comes from knowing that Mat is a home grown Rhode Islander, and that he chose Rhode Island’s flagship public university for his education. He is Keaney Blue through and through. URI gave him the foundation to put his dream into place. This is what return on investment and thinking big are all about,” Professor Boyd said.