The Salvi Foundation has welcomed a University of the West of Scotland (UWS) graduate as its new Executive Director.

UWS alumna, Dr Greis Cifuentes, will lead a phase of national and international expansion at the Salvi Foundation, a non-profit institution operating in the cultural sector in Colombia and actively dedicated to disseminating, promoting and developing the musical culture of the country and Latin America.

Greis commented: “I assume this responsibility with profound respect for the legacy we have built and with the conviction that music can continue to be a bridge between people, territories, and generations.

“My goal is to strengthen musical access and training processes, connect the Salvi Foundation with national and international networks, and join forces with those who believe that culture not only transforms lives but also builds society.”

This new leadership marks the beginning of a strategic phase aimed at strengthening the Foundation’s connection with cultural, educational and artistic networks both in Colombia and internationally. Greis takes on the challenge of expanding the reach of the Foundation’s programs, generating sustainable links with international organisations, cultural sector partners, and entities committed to education and social transformation through music.

Greis graduated from UWS with a PhD in Public Policy in 2023 and has over a decade of experience in project development, international cooperation, culture and sustainable development.

Talking about her time studying at UWS Greis said: “Although I studied through distance learning, my PhD journey at UWS was incredibly enriching. I was fortunate to be guided by an exceptional academic team – especially my thesis supervisor, Professor David McGillivray, and my co-supervisor, Professor Gayle McPherson. Their support, professionalism, and human warmth made a deep impact on my development, and their guidance was essential during the most defining moments of my research.

“I am also happy to continue being connected to the University as a Research Associate of the UWS Centre for Culture, Sport and Events (CCSE), which allows me to stay engaged in meaningful academic dialogue and collaborative projects that seek to harness culture as a driver for peace and social transformation.

“Doing my PhD at UWS deepened my conviction that research, when grounded in purpose, can change lives and shape more inclusive societies. I carry those lessons with me every day in my work at Fundación Salvi and beyond.”

Greis has also served as Secretary of Culture of Ibagué – where she promoted the city’s designation as a Creative City of Music by UNESCO – an advisor to the Colombian Ministry of Culture on multilateral issues and has led initiatives in Colombia and Germany with the Fulbright Commission.

Find out more about PhD opportunities at UWS.