Lasell University Announces Corey Thomas and Al Wilson as 2026 Commencement Speakers

Lasell University will welcome two accomplished leaders in technology and community development to headline its 2026 commencement ceremonies. Corey Thomas, CEO of Rapid7, and Al Wilson, founder and CEO of Beyond Walls, will share their perspectives on leadership, innovation, and impact with this year’s graduates.

Thomas will deliver the keynote address at the undergraduate ceremony on May 16. A nationally recognized technology executive, Thomas leads Rapid7, a global cybersecurity company headquartered in Boston. He is widely regarded for his expertise at the intersection of technology, business, and public policy.

Over the course of his career, Thomas has been appointed to the National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. His leadership extends across multiple sectors through board service with organizations including LPL Financial and Vanderbilt University. He currently serves as chair of the boards of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts and the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to his executive leadership, Thomas is an active voice in the technology community as an angel investor, advisor, and speaker, helping organizations navigate innovation and digital transformation. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in electrical engineering and computer science from Vanderbilt University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

Wilson will address graduate students during the May 15 commencement ceremony. As the founder and CEO of Beyond Walls, Wilson has built a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to transforming communities through public art and creative placemaking.

Since launching Beyond Walls in 2017, Wilson has led efforts to bring world-class artists and large-scale installations to 18 gateway cities. Under his leadership, the organization has completed nearly 300 public art and design projects, expanded arts education in public schools, and developed new initiatives that support local businesses and regional economies.

Wilson’s career spans technology and health care, where he held leadership roles in sales and operations, building teams and expanding organizational reach nationwide. A graduate of Bridgewater State University, he is widely recognized for his work advancing arts access and driving urban revitalization.

“Lasell University is honored to welcome Corey Thomas and Alfred Wilson as our 2026 commencement keynote speakers,” said Lasell President Eric Turner. “Our community is excited for them to share their insights, experiences, and forward-thinking perspectives with our graduates and their families.”

For more information about commencement, visit the Lasell University commencement page.