Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl to give commencement speech at SUNY New Paltz later this month

Credit: Warner/press
Robert Kyncl

Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl is heading back to his old university – to give a commencement speech to the graduating class of 2023.

Kyncl will provide the official Commencement Address at the Sunday Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony at SUNY New Paltz on May 21.

Kyncl will also receive an honorary doctorate of humane letters degree, the highest form of recognition offered by the State University of New York.

Kyncl graduated from SUNY New Paltz (aka the State University of New York at New Paltz) in 1995, having studied International Relations.

“After arriving here from the Czech Republic, SUNY New Paltz opened up a whole new world for me, helping me build strong intellectual, social, professional, and personal foundations, including meeting my wife,” Kyncl said.

“After arriving here from the Czech Republic, SUNY New Paltz opened up a whole new world for me, helping me build strong intellectual, social, professional, and personal foundations, including meeting my wife.”

Robert Kyncl

“As immigrants, we’re both deeply thankful for the experiences that this great school gave us. Together, Luz and I are committed to helping the next generation of students access the same opportunities.

“I’m grateful to receive this honor and look forward to returning to this wonderful institution to celebrate with the Class of ’23.”

Kyncl’s wife, licensed psychotherapist Luz Avila Kyncl, graduated from SUNY New Paltz in 1996, having studied Psychology.

Robert Kyncl and Luz Avila Kyncl jointly run the Kyncl Family Foundation, which provides financial assistance to students from underrepresented communities pursuing STEM degrees.

In February, the Kyncls pledged five more years of scholarship support for underrepresented students pursuing degrees in computer science and engineering at SUNY New Paltz.

Robert Kyncl assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer at Warner Music Group in January 2023.

The global music company houses record labels such as Atlantic, Warner Records, 300 Entertainment, Elektra and Parlophone, as well as music publishing company Warner Chappell Music.

Kyncl previously served for more than a decade as Chief Business Officer at YouTube, where he played a central role in defining the company’s strategy.Music Business Worldwide