Tiff's Treats co-founder and UT alum Leon Chen addressed the University of Texas at Austin McCombs School of Business 2024 graduating class and treated the audience to a sweet surprise ending!
Reflecting on his time at the University of Texas, Leon recounted how a missed date with his now-wife Tiffany (yes, the Tiff!) led to the creation of Tiff’s Treats. “When she brought them over, they still happened to be hot, and I didn't grow up in the kind of household that had ever experienced straight-from-the-oven cookies before, so when I had my first bite, I couldn't believe it.” This simple act sparked the idea of delivering freshly baked cookies, a concept that has since blossomed into a thriving business with more than 120 locations and growing!
Leon spoke to the UT Graduates about the power of youthful naivety and the importance of defining success on one's own terms. He encouraged the crowd to embrace their inexperience and take bold risks, a philosophy that played a crucial role in his entrepreneurial journey. “The rewards you get are most often directly linked to the level of risk you're willing or able to take... you all have that advantage, so my advice to you is to unabashedly use it.” Tiff and Leon's story is a testament to how unconventional paths and a willingness to venture into the unknown can lead to remarkable achievements. As graduates step into the next phase of their lives, Leon's message is this: be daring, jump into your naivety, define your own success, and enjoy the ride!
Encouraging the graduates to keep their eyes open to opportunities and “look up”, Leon surprised the graduating class and guests in attendance to hundreds of mini Tiff’s Treats boxes parachuting down as a special and memorable surprise treat.