Commencement Speaker

Ali Safavi, a 2001 College of Law alumnus, will deliver the commencement address for the College of Law during ceremonies on May 10.

Safavi received his bachelor’s degree in sociology from UCLA, and a juris doctor degree and Master of Business Administration from the University of Tennessee.

His executive corporate experience stretches across several household name companies, including Hewlett-Packard, Sara Lee, Levi’s, Haagen-Dazs, P&G and Disney.

While at Procter and Gamble in a key brand management role, he led the company’s most significant and successful brand launch in Febreze Air Effects – worth $200 million in profitable revenue. Safavi’s last corporate role before moving into full-time real estate investment was overseeing Walt Disney Company’s international business with a focus on Europe, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. He has held a number of  positions throughout the Disney company working with brand management, distribution, sales, and global account management.

Safavi’s success in real estate investment has enabled him to retire before the age of 40, and he currently resides in Los Angeles.