shahla safaie

I am a creative, multilingual educator with 20+ years of experience teaching art, fashion, textiles, and ESL in academic and community settings. Skilled in developing engaging, culturally rich curricula and fostering student success. Fluent in English, Italian, and Farsi, with professional experience in the U.S. and Italy.

TEACHING EXPERIENCE

Adjunct Faculty – Fashion & Marketing, San Joaquin Delta College, Stockton, CA – Taught fashion design, textiles, and retail marketing; developed industry-relevant curriculum; mentored students in portfolio and career preparation.

Art Instructor, Grand Theatre Center for the Arts, Tracy, CA – Led classes in drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media, organized exhibitions and student showcases.

ESL Instructor & Substitute Teacher, Drake University & Des Moines Public Schools; Florence, Italy – Began as a substitute teacher in Des Moines while a student at Drake University and continued in various teaching roles; taught English to multilingual learners; promoted cross-cultural learning; adapted lessons to varied proficiency levels.

LEADERSHIP & CULTURAL PROJECTS

Program Director, Grandma’s House (HIV/AIDS nonprofit) – Developed art-based youth programs.

Art Curator & Gallery Manager, Catholic University of America – Coordinated exhibitions and artist collaborations.

Cultural Liaison, Leonardo da Vinci Exhibit – Partnered with Italian Consulate & San Jose Science Museum.

EDUCATION

Graduate Studies – Architecture & Urban Design, Catholic University of America

BFA – Textiles, Drake University

AA – Fashion & Design, Fleming College, Florence, Italy

LANGUAGES

English – Fluent | Italian – Fluent | Farsi – Fluent | French – Intermediate