Al Marjan

About Ryan DeGrawLinkedin-in

With a diverse background that spans international experiences, passion for hospitality, and emphasis on sustainability, I bring a unique perspective to the table as an ambitious professional.

I began my academic journey at the College of the Holy Cross, where I completed a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Environmental Studies. After graduation, my desire to delve into the world of hospitality led me to New York City, where I began working within the Wine and Spirits sector. This exposure inspired me to pursue further education to enhance my analytical acumen and problem-solving abilities within the hospitality domain. It was at this point that I returned to University to begin the Master of Management in Hospitality (MMH) Program at Cornell University.

Currently, I am pursuing the MMH degree with a focus on financial and real estate analysis. Within this, I am combining my academic achievements, work experiences, and an inherent passion for the world of hospitality and sustainability, to position myself to make significant impacts, bettering our industry and society.

About Ryan M. LaverLinkedin-in

I am a fervent devotee of hospitality and an interior design aficiando, with an academic foundation forged at esteemed institutions such as Cornell and EHL.

Named Swiss Who’s Who Millennial of the Year in 2022, this accolade is a testament to my vision on the future of luxury hospitality. My passion extends beyond the glimmering corridors of high-end hotels and chic boutiques to the raw and untamed landscapes of the Antarctic. A daring two-month work experience at White Desert Echo Camp awaits me in December – embracing extreme remote locations to unearth new dimensions of luxury and transformational experiences.

My dream to open my own designed boutique hotel is fueled by my dedication to creating hyperpersonalized guest experiences and a love for aesthetic refinement. My work experiences at luxury maisons; Louis Vuitton, Cartier, the Yacht Club de Monaco, and AMAN Resorts, narrate a story of ambition, heritage, innovation, and unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

A Cornellian with an eye for detail and a heart filled with hospitality-warmth, my endeavors promise to redefine the future of ultra-luxury, setting new benchmarks for a purpose driven industry, where extraordinary experiences and positive impact converge in a harmonious dance – such as seen at Al Marjan.

About Milad RohaniLinkedin-in

My name is Milad Rohani, and I am a candidate for the Master of Management in Hospitality at Cornell University. I received my Bachelor degree in Architecture from the University of Southern California, and then went on to design hotels with Bill Bensley for two years while living in Bangkok.

I grew up with a passion for creativity and a constant yearning to travel; naturally, it has always been my dream to combine these two. Ever since I was 12 years old, I would draw concept plans for island resorts and imagine wild concepts. Working with Bensley allowed me to explore this passion deeper, and enabled me to push the boundaries of tourism.

Shifting my career path slightly away from architecture and towards hospitality by pursuing my MMH Degree at  Cornell’s Hotel School will allow me to foster a deeper understanding behind developing, owning, and operating hotels.

I am thrilled to be in the finals with my team in the Sustainable Hospitality Challenge. Our experience in Amsterdam for the semi-finals was wonderful, and I look forward to yet another inspiring, educating and motivating event in Abu Dhabi!