Holton-Arms Announces Kass Savarese Lazerow ’89 as 2026 Commencement Speaker

Holton-Arms is proud to announce that distinguished alumna Kass Savarese Lazerow ’89 will be the Commencement Speaker for the Class of 2026.

A visionary entrepreneur, builder, and early-stage investor, Lazerow has spent more than three decades imagining what does not yet exist, and bringing it to life. As co-founder of Buddy Media and GOLF.com, she helped shape the digital media landscape while remaining grounded in purpose and people.

Throughout her career, Lazerow has embodied the qualities Holton strives to cultivate in every graduate. Intellectually curious and boldly innovative, she has built companies, taken thoughtful risks, and embraced failure as a pathway to growth. A committed philanthropist, she has helped raise millions of dollars for rare cancer research at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. As a New York Times bestselling author, she has used her voice to inspire others to pursue meaningful impact.

Lazerow’s leadership philosophy reflects Holton’s motto, Inveniam viam aut faciam—“I will find a way or make one.” Her approach is rooted not in prestige, but in courage, creativity, conviction, and compassion. She leads with integrity, listens deeply, and uses her platform in service of the common good.

Lazerow credits her Holton education for teaching her to trust her voice. She shared, "I can trace that courage back to classrooms and conversations at Holton... [it] gave me permission to lead, to question, to take risks, and to get back up when I fell short."

As Holton celebrates its 125th year, welcoming Lazerow back to campus is especially meaningful. On Commencement morning, the Class of 2026 will hear from a leader whose journey reflects resilience, imagination, and purpose, and whose message will inspire graduates to embrace uncertainty and lead lives defined by contribution.