The Wright family, deeply rooted in Mount Vernon, has made a transformative $5.8 million gift to Kenyon College, creating life-changing opportunities for local students and strengthening ties between the college and the community.
Central to the donation is the Wright Family Scholarship, which provides full tuition for a top graduate of Mount Vernon High School to attend Kenyon College for four years. This initiative ensures local students can access an elite education without financial barriers, fostering a direct connection to their Mount Vernon roots.
Additionally, the gift establishes endowed funds for internship stipends, enabling Kenyon students to pursue opportunities in Ohio, particularly in Knox County. These stipends bridge academic learning with real-world experience, driving economic growth in Mount Vernon and highlighting its potential to graduates.
Kenyon President Julie Kornfeld praised the Wright family’s commitment. “This gift strengthens our ties to the community and ensures that Kenyon plays a vital role in Mount Vernon’s success,” she said.
Alex Wright, a 2005 Kenyon alumnus and CEO of Ariel Corporation, emphasized the family’s dedication to education and community. “Through this scholarship and internship funding, we aim to inspire students to dream big while connecting them to opportunities in Mount Vernon and Ohio,” he said.
The Wright family’s impact on Mount Vernon is longstanding. Their contributions include the Ariel Foundation and the Wright Center, a downtown space housing Kenyon’s film program and community partnerships.
By funding scholarships and internships, the Wright family ensures Mount Vernon remains a hub for education and opportunity. This gift aligns with Kenyon’s broader efforts to support Ohio students, reflecting the Wrights’ enduring commitment to their hometown’s future.
