School of Art and Design Alumnus Continues to Shape the Themed Attractions Industry

Cecil Magpuri graduated from The School of Art of Design in 1991 with a bachelor’s of arts degree in applied arts and sciences. He has gone on to be a leading creative force in the themed entertainment industry, innovating technologies in theme parks, resorts, film and beyond.

Magpuri served as the creative director of Universal Studios, where he was the initial concept developer for major attractions including Twister: Ride it Out! Throughout his career, Magpuri has developed over 30 patents that have innovated the themed attractions industry. It is difficult to imagine the world of themed entertainment without the work of Cecil Magpuri.

Magpuri went on to co-found Falcon’s Beyond, where he is now the CEO.

“Falcon’s Beyond, LLC is a fully integrated, top-tier experiential entertainment development enterprise specializing in intellectual property expansion,” states Falcon’s Beyond Senior Producer Audrey DeLong.

The connections Magpuri made during his time at SDSU jump started his career. During his senior year, he had the unique opportunity to share his student work alongside the work of his professors at industry events.

“This was an excellent opportunity to get exposed to the themed entertainment industry. Iwerks Entertainment was at the showing and was impressed with Cecil’s work, which led to a job offer right after graduation,” shares DeLong.

Magpuri shares his strategy for success to future graduates.

“Get as much exposure to whatever industry you choose as possible. Do your homework and have a firm understanding of what roles entail and basically what you’re getting into,” says Magpuri. “Leverage your connections.”

The content within this article has been edited by Lizbeth Persons.