A USC graduate who has served as the university’s senior vice president for administration on an interim basis since last July will remain in the post, USC interim President Wanda M. Austin and President-elect Carol L. Folt announced Monday.
David Wright reports directly to the office of the president. His responsibilities include management of public safety and emergency planning, real estate, student housing and dining, and parking and transportation. He also oversees operations at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, USC Bookstores and The USC Hotel.
“This is a key role on our senior leadership team, and our community will benefit greatly from Mr. Wright’s sound judgment, experience and institutional knowledge,” Austin said in a prepared statement. “He has proven invaluable in keeping the everyday functions of the university running smoothly for our students, faculty, and staff, as well as our many guests. He leads with great integrity and intelligence.”
In addition to his administrative duties, Wright has served on the President’s Culture Commission, a group of senior leaders, staff, faculty members and students working on “strengthening campus culture and accountability.”
Prior to his promotion, he had served as associate senior vice president for administrative operations since 2014. In that role, he managed programs like campus security, environmental health and sustainability, fire safety and emergency planning.
“It’s pretty humbling to know that the university’s leaders have trusted me to take on this important position,” Wright said. “We’re all gearing up to support Dr. Folt and her goals as she comes on board.”
Folt becomes USC’s 12th president on July 1.
Wright earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from USC and his MBA from UCLA. He joined USC in 2005 as controller of USC Bookstores. In 2007, he became director of finance and accounting for USC Auxiliary Services, which oversees hospitality, housing and transportation, among other functions.
His previous positions include stints as a budget administrator for Biola University, controller for a manufacturing company, planning manager for Disneyland Resort and senior consultant for Deloitte and Touche Consulting Group.