On February 12, Chaminade Julienne announced that Dr. David Wright will serve as the school’s next president, beginning this July. As he prepares to join the CJ family, Wright reflects on what first drew him to the role and how his visit to campus in January affirmed his enthusiasm for the school’s mission, people, and future. His early impressions only deepened his desire to serve a community so clearly rooted in faith, purpose, and unity.
Wright and his wife, Cindy, are avid sports enthusiasts who have completed a half marathon in all 50 states. They are the proud parents of three married daughters—Shaina (Denver, CO), Samantha (Alexandria, VA), and Kylie (Frederick, MD)—and grandparents to four grandchildren, with a fifth due February 23, all of whom are very excited to visit. The couple looks forward to becoming active members of both the CJ family and the greater Dayton community. They plan to explore the trails along the river and throughout the city and are excited by the downtown area and the resources and community spaces like DayAir Ballpark, Dayton Metro Library, Riverscape, and the many local restaurants and breweries — having already dined at a few during their visit.
What initially piqued your interest in this position?
“When I first learned of the opening at Chaminade Julienne, I was immediately drawn to a mission that so deeply mirrors my own convictions regarding the transformative power of Catholic education. By grounding its identity in the dual charisms of the Marianists and the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, CJ has created a unique environment where students are empowered to proclaim God’s goodness through both word and action. I believe that commitment to whole person development is the cornerstone of forming integrity-based leaders, individuals who are not only prepared for academic success but are also deeply committed to social justice, inclusivity, and service to others. These attributes are essential for living a Christ-like life, and I was inspired by how CJ’s mission seamlessly integrated these values with the pursuit of life-long learning.”
What is it about CJ that made you want to be a part of the CJ community?
“The possibility of mentoring, motivating, and encouraging the diverse and inclusive student population at CJ was a profound blessing for me to consider. I am humbled to have that opportunity and will do all I can to be successful in fulfilling that objective. The opportunity to build upon a strong foundation focused on faith, community, and academic excellence, carrying forward the outstanding legacy of current president, Dan Meixner ‘84. The desire to lead a ‘what’s next’ approach, continuing to foster innovation, such as the CJ United program, while honoring the school’s unique traditions and charisms. Lastly, the chance to lead a vibrant, unified, and expanding educational environment in Downtown Dayton.”
How did your visit reinforce or change your initial perceptions of CJ?
“Not only did the visit reinforce the wonderful things I heard about the school, but it magnified and accentuated many positive characteristics. First, I was genuinely impressed with the exceptional students that I met. They were bright, engaging, and extremely welcoming. Second, it was clear that the faculty, administration, and staff are very talented and committed to the mission of the institution. The Board of Trustees, search committee members, and alumni were caring, passionate, and profoundly supportive of everything CJ. The sense of family, unity, and love was palpable. Finally, the intentionality pertaining to mission integration was beyond inspiring. The desire to incorporate the charisms of the Sisters and the Marianists was unmistakable.”
What can people expect as far as your leadership style?
“My leadership style is a mix of collegial and servant models. I believe in a collaborative approach that values trust, mutual respect, and open communication. This style depends on developing and fostering authentic human relationships to build strength inside the institution. Helping other humans realize their full potential is the key element of a servant leader and nothing makes me happier on a professional level. I believe that leadership can be and should be a shared responsibility—a systemic versus hierarchical paradigm. Building a collaborative and collegial culture has worked well for me, but I also know the importance of making tough decisions when the circumstances warrant.”
What do you most want current teachers, staff members, students, parents and alumni to know about you?
“I am a deeply engaged school leader. I won’t spend a great deal of time in an office as I believe in the notion of actively participating in the life of the institution. I will embrace and model a ministry of presence as I get to know all CJ stakeholders. I look forward to meeting all the people that make CJ great. I will encourage a cooperative spirit of service, promote holistic student growth, and hope to inspire the community by embracing both tradition and a vision for the future. For me, leading Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School will entail caring about others, never asking anyone to do anything I am not willing to do myself, loving my fellow constituents, and humbly serving the institution. Finally, my wife Cindy and I are thrilled to be joining the CJ family and the broader Dayton community.”