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Keynote Speaker — BYU Computer Science Class of 2026

Biography

Alan C. Ashton is a distinguished computer scientist, entrepreneur, educator, and devoted spiritual leader whose life exemplifies the integration of faith, family, and professional excellence. He is best known as the co-founder of WordPerfect Corporation, a pioneering company that helped define personal computing. Ashton began his career as a professor of computer science at Brigham Young University (1972-1986).

Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, Alan earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics and Ph.D. in computer science from the University of Utah, after which he joined the faculty at BYU. His work with WordPerfect grew from research and innovation to global impact. After the company’s acquisition, he continued to serve in technology and community leadership roles.

Alan’s life has been defined by his faith. As a young man, he served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in central Germany (1961-1963), an experience that helped shape his lifelong commitment to spiritual service.

In 1995, following the sale of WordPerfect, Alan and his wife, Karen, founded Thanksgiving Point in Lehi, Utah. What began as a vision to strengthen families and communities through learning has become a world-class public charity featuring museums, gardens, educational programs, and cultural events. Thanksgiving Point reflects the Ashtons’ belief that knowledge, creativity, and faith can enrich lives and bring people closer together.

Family is everything to Alan and Karen. They are the parents of 11 children, 65 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren.

Throughout his life, Alan has served in numerous church callings, including elder's quorum president, bishop, stake president, and president of the Canada Toronto West Mission (2004–2007). Alan and Karen also served as president and matron of the Provo Utah Temple (2013-2016). Currently, he is a sealer at the Orem Utah Temple. All of these roles have deepened his appreciation for sacred covenants and our Savior’s atonement.

Alan’s personal and professional journey testifies of his belief that faith and knowledge can coexist and uplift one another. He will deliver an Easter message to the graduating class focusing upon the Savior and His scriptures, encouraging graduates to seek spiritual grounding as they pursue their professional paths with integrity, purpose, and devotion to service.