It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Ali Emami, a cherished member of our academic community. Emami served as a Senior Instructor II of Finance at the University of Oregon’s Lundquist College of Business, where he dedicated over three decades to educating and inspiring students.

Emami held numerous esteemed positions throughout his career, including president/CEO of Northwest Persian Rugs & Imports Inc. and Forouz, The Salon. His academic journey was marked by significant contributions to the fields of finance and economics, with a PhD in applied economics from Oregon State University (1988) and an MA in economics from the University of Oregon (1980).

Emami’s commitment to education was evident in his extensive teaching experience, having taught such courses as creating value through capital, stock market investment, economic foundations of competitive analysis, financial markets and investment, derivative markets and financial Institutions, international finance, and many more. He was also a prolific researcher and author, contributing valuable insights to the field of international trade and resource management. His research included notable such publications as "Natural Resources and Sharing: The Role of Trade" and "The Survival of Cultures: Preemptive Consumption, Natural Resources, and Poverty."

Beyond his professional achievements, Emami was deeply involved in the economic development of Eugene’s downtown. Since 1995, he advocated for protecting open spaces in downtown Eugene, specifically securing Kesey Square for public use. Through his contacts with downtown merchants, he invited business owners, such as those from Voodoo Doughnuts, to speak in his courses, enriching the learning experience for his students.

Emami was also an active member of various professional organizations, including the American Agricultural Economic Association and the International Institute of Fisheries Economics & Trade. His dedication to student success and his passion for teaching left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of learning from him.

In addition to his academic roles, Emami served on the University of Oregon Senate, contributing to the university’s governance and academic policies. His service included roles on the University Senate Budget Committee, University Academic Council, and Undergraduate Program Committee, among others.

Emami viewed teaching as a public service for improving knowledge. He believed in helping students achieve fundamental skills they would use in their future lives and learn to think critically about business and economic decisions. His strong background in economics and business, combined with his teaching experience, enabled him to facilitate learning in diverse classroom settings. He treated students with respect, valued high ethics, and dedicated himself to helping all students succeed in reaching their academic goals. His students gained immense practical knowledge from his courses.

Emami’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations of students and scholars. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and students during this difficult time.