WORCESTER—Worcester Polytechnic Institute has appointed Matthew Thaler as its next vice president and general counsel, formalizing a role he has held on an interim basis since October 2024. The university announced the appointment Wednesday, highlighting Thaler’s extensive legal experience and ongoing leadership within WPI’s legal office since 2018.
“Matt’s deep understanding of higher education law, his principled leadership, and his unwavering commitment to WPI’s mission have made him an invaluable asset to our community,” WPI President Grace Wang said in a university statement. “I am confident he will continue to serve WPI well as our vice president and general counsel at a time when the legal and regulatory challenges facing universities are increasingly complex.”
Thaler brings more than 20 years of legal experience to the role, spanning private practice, corporate law, and higher education. Before joining WPI, he worked in the in-house legal office of a NASDAQ-listed software company, ultimately serving as general counsel. He also practiced law at Goodwin Procter LLP and Proskauer Rose LLP.
Since arriving at WPI, Thaler has given legal guidance across university operations and led initiatives in risk management, research compliance, intellectual property, and policy adherence. In his new role, he will serve as the university’s chief legal officer, advising the president, Board of Trustees, and senior leadership on matters including litigation, governance, employment law, and regulatory compliance.
“I’m honored to serve WPI in this new role,” Thaler said in the announcement. “This is a university that fosters innovation and purpose-driven research, and I look forward to supporting that mission and helping WPI navigate today’s legal challenges with integrity, clarity, and foresight.”
Thaler holds a Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law and a bachelor’s degree from Bates College.
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