Xavier University Of Louisiana Has A New Vice President Of Student Services
NEW ORLEANS — Curtis Wright, who presently serves as the Dean of Campus Life and Chief Diversity Officer at Wagner College will become Xavier University of Louisiana’s next Vice President of Student Services.
"I am pleased to welcome Mr. Wright to the Xavier family and look forward to his creative contribution to the student experience and to Xavier as a whole," said Xavier President Reynold Verret. He added, “Xavier is the only Black and Catholic university in the United States founded with a mission of contributing to the promotion of a just and humane society. This position is key to the development of students who not only achieve academic excellence but also become servant leaders who will change the world."
Previously, Wright served in a variety of roles at Wagner University including Dean of Campus Life and Leadership, Associate Dean of Campus Life and Director of the Office of Co-Curricular Programs. Prior to his tenure at Wagner, Mr. Wright also served at New York University and at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
Throughout his work in Student Affairs, Wright has applied skill and imagination in building engaged communities, strengthening race and ethnic relations, motivating students to become involved in conversations surrounding justice and equity, and addressing the socio-economic challenges facing students.
“Xavier University has a reputation for allowing all students to find their own excellence and providing them the support to do so once they arrive at the university,” Wright said. Adding, “In my new role, I feel strongly that I can connect the rich and unique history and mission of the University to the interests and concerns of today’s student and create an environment that helps every student find their voice.”
Wright is drawn to Xavier University of Louisiana, the city of New Orleans, and working with a breadth of students in an HBCU setting. His objectives include expanding student perspectives, promoting opportunities to learn outside the classroom, and exposing students to experiences that will shape them into leaders of the tomorrow.
The search committee comprised a representative group of the Xavier community, including faculty, staff, students and alumni. Keyana Scales, Vice President of Enrollment Services, chaired the search. As she stated, “The members of the committee and I were impressed not only by Wright’s experience but also by his understanding of our mission and his commitment to creating a safe and affirming environment where all students will reach their maximum potential.”
Wright replaces longtime Vice President of Student Services, Dean Joseph Byrd, who is retiring after decades of dedication to generations of Xavierites. Curtis Wright will officially join Xavier in his new role on August 1.
