Kieth Cockrell Named Keynote Speaker at Queens University of Charlotte Commencement

Kieth Cockrell, president of Bank of America Charlotte, will deliver the keynote address at Queens University of Charlotte’s 164th Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 6.

“I have tremendous respect for Queens University’s leadership and the impact this school has in our community and across the region,” said Kieth Cockrell, president of Bank of America Charlotte. “The university’s mission of serving others and the lessons learned during their time at Queens will continue to benefit these graduating students as they go on to lead purposeful and fulfilling lives.”

During his nearly 40-year career in financial services, Cockrell has held several executive roles at Bank of America. In his current role as Charlotte president, he is responsible for connecting banking and investment resources offered through the bank’s eight lines of business to people and companies across the region, deploying Bank of America’s resources to address social and economic concerns, and helping the local community thrive.

“We are honored to have Mr. Cockrell as our keynote speaker,” said President Dan Lugo of Queens University. “He has established himself as a leader not only at Bank of America but within the entire Charlotte community. He has worked selflessly at addressing important issues like social and economic mobility and is a living testament to our motto, ‘not to be served, but to serve.’ I know that our graduates, faculty, staff, and guests will be enlightened and inspired by Mr. Cockrell’s address.”

Cockrell attended Columbia University and is currently the vice chair of the Johnson C. Smith University Board of Trustees. He also plays a vital role on various boards with local organizations, including board chair of the Levine Museum of the New South, the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, Foundation for the Carolinas Community Real Property Holdings, Inc., My Brother’s Keeper Charlotte-Mecklenburg, Providence Day School, and Davidson College. Cockrell is a passionate ally and advocate for a diverse and inclusive workplace. Previously, he served as vice chair of the Global Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Council. In this role, he was instrumental in establishing several employee networks, including the Black Professional Group, the Hispanic/Latino Organization for Leadership and Advancement, the Military Support and Assistance Group, and the Black Executive Advisory Council.

Queens University’s Commencement ceremony will begin at 9 a.m. on May 6 at the Hall Brown Terrace on campus.

Visit the Commencement webpage for more details about the ceremony.