CD Wealth Founder to Deliver UT Economics Commencement Address
Dallas (April 24, 2026) — Scott Cohen, Founder and Executive Chairman of CD Wealth Management and a longtime mentor to University of Texas students, will deliver the commencement address for the school’s Department of Economics on May 9 in Austin.
A proud graduate of UT’s Class of 1993, Cohen works closely with students in the department and across the College of Liberal Arts, offering career guidance and industry perspective to students from a wide range of backgrounds and disciplines.
“Coming back to the Forty Acres in this role is deeply meaningful for me,” Cohen said. “UT gave me the foundation for everything that followed, and I’m grateful for the chance to be part of this milestone for so many Longhorns.
“It’s a privilege to speak to a group that’s on the cusp of shaping the future.”
In March, the College of Liberal Arts honored Cohen with its highest recognition: the Pro Bene Meritis Award, given to alumni whose service and leadership have advanced the mission of the college and its students.
Through CD Wealth Management and Kestra Financial, he has established internship programs that have placed more than 20 UT students in hands-on professional roles, creating a direct path from the classroom to careers.
He also is involved with the University by serving on the UT Economics Advisory Committee, the UT Development Board, the Liberal Arts Advisory Council, and the Longhorn Foundation Advisory Council. In addition, he mentors Silver Spurs members and alumni and advises his fraternity, Zeta Beta Tau.
“UT opens doors,” Cohen said. “It challenges you, pushes you, and surrounds you with people who raise your expectations for what’s possible.”
Cohen and his wife Barbi have established two endowed scholarships — one in the College of Education and one supporting Economics students in the College of Liberal Arts. Two of their three daughters have ties to UT: Kacey graduated in 2023, and Olivia is a rising junior.