John Wright: A Lecture for Life

John Wright (MA ‘71, English; PhD ‘77, American studies), recipient of the Alumni of Notable Achievement Award here at CLA, is an active teacher and groundbreaking researcher. Having started in engineering before transferring to the liberal arts here at CLA, Wright encourages students to find their passions and pursue their own path, just as he did. 

What do you do professionally?

I am retired, but am an active teacher and researcher.

How are you involved in the community?

I do public lectures, film screenings, and corporate seminars.

How did your time in CLA inspire you to pursue your path?

It enabled me to reorient my trajectory from engineering to the liberal arts.

What is your favorite memory from your time as a student?

Participating in AAAC (African American Action Committee).

What advice would you give to current CLA students?

Discover what you truly care about and pursue it relentlessly.

How do you spend your free time? What "fills your cup"?

Enjoying the local arts scene and staying active athletically.

What was your reaction to receiving this award?

I was gratefully surprised.

What's next? What are your personal/professional goals for the next five years?

Finishing a long gestating book project.

This story was edited by an undergraduate student.

Edited by Jennifer Nguyen