Dr. Michael L. Wright, Ed.D., is a seasoned educational leader whose career spans more than three decades of dedicated service to students, teachers, and communities across Arizona. A second-generation native Arizonan, Dr. Wright began his journey in education in 1990 as a high school teacher and coach. Over the ensuing 34 years, he has made a lasting impact at both the K-12 and post-secondary levels.
Dr. Wright’s commitment to excellence and innovation in education is reflected in his extensive leadership experience. For over 20 years, he has held senior executive roles, culminating in a ten-year tenure as a public school superintendent in Arizona, from which he recently retired. His vision and stewardship have guided schools through changing landscapes, always with an unwavering focus on student achievement and community engagement.
Beyond his administrative roles, Dr. Wright has contributed to the academic community as an adjunct professor for Northern Arizona University, following his own graduate and post-graduate studies. He is a published author and serves as the Director of the Arizona Risk Retention Trust Legal and Leadership Academy—the state’s premier leadership seminar, shaping Arizona’s educational leaders since 2001.
Dr. Wright currently operates his own leadership consulting practice, which he has run since 2020. His expertise and mentorship continue to influence organizations and individuals seeking effective, ethical leadership.
Service to others is a cornerstone of Dr. Wright’s life. His volunteer work includes three years as a Pat Tillman Mentor (2005–2008) and two years as a prison minister (2013–2015). He has also volunteered at Fort Apache, Arizona, mentoring a men’s support group. He has made significant contributions to the broader educational community as a Commissioner on the Arizona Board of Education’s Commission on Post-Secondary Education. Additionally, he served on the Arizona Department of Education Professional Practices Committee for three years.
Dr. Wright’s family is a source of deep pride and inspiration. He is married to Shamaine Hatch Wright, a retired music teacher whose own distinguished career spanned 35 years. Together, they are the proud parents of four children and grandparents to eleven grandchildren.
A respected leader, educator, mentor, and author, Dr. Michael L. Wright, Ed.D., continues to shape Arizona’s educational landscape through his ongoing commitment to service, leadership, and the pursuit of excellence.
