USA EAST COAST

The University of Bologna has the enormous merit of having educated and trained some of the greatest minds in the world. Many of these outstanding students have travelled or moved to the United States to explore new career opportunities and achieve their life plans, just as each of you haves done. Over the past few years, a small group of Alumni have come together in New York with the aim of launching an engaging and meaningful project originating from the specific interests and needs of our Alumni population. Thus, the USA East Coast Chapter was born and the network is developing to reach all University of Bologna Alumni on the East Coast of the USA.

The Chapter Leader

Lydia Ferrarese is a partner at the law firm Offit Kurman in New York and focuses on “Business Law and Transactions” and “Business Litigation”. 

Her work focuses on assisting European and Italian corporate clients in a wide range of complex international litigation cases, in New York and throughout the US. It also advises corporate clients on commercial transactions, including commercial contracts and mergers and acquisitions. 

Lydia has extensive experience in depositions and has conducted complex discovery activities in accordance with the Hague Conventions. She has handled acquisitions and corporate matters for companies in the pharmaceutical field, in the car and motorcycle and construction machinery and equipment industries, as well as offering services to various manufacturers. 

Lydia also helps companies with their business ventures, assisting them in establishing their presence in the US and focusing on commercial agreements, equity and operating agreements and related corporate matters as well as providing advice on corporate transactions, including stock and asset acquisitions. 

The Chapter Team

• Federico Foli is a world-class business leader with more than 30 years of experience in managing innovation, transformation and growth in various industries. A graduate of the University of Bologna and author of the book The Mindful Leader, he is a pioneer in integrating business strategy, mindfulness and jazz to inspire person-centred leadership. 

• Zarifa Maria Garofalo is a marketing and communication professional with over 20 years of international experience in the luxury, design and lifestyle sectors. After studying at the European School of Economics and NYU in New York, she founded her own production and consultancy company for international clients, handling global events and campaigns for top brands. She is currently Chief Marketing Officer of an American luxury design startup.