Guest Speaker Profile: Simon Wright
In 1982, British Foreign Secretary Lord Carrington, in search of someone who could establish a connection with the Ronald Reagan administration, appointed Oliver Wright to serve as the British ambassador to the United States.
Described as a “tall, handsome man, with an erect posture and a slightly military bearing reminiscent of his years in the Royal Navy” by The Independent, Wright’s appearance and manner undoubtedly contributed to his success, along with his genuine kindness, jovial humor, and ability to put visitors at ease.
In Sir Wright’s wildest dreams, he never imagined that his grandson, listen to this, would be born and raised in Southern California, the state where Reagan served as Governor, and would also be voted to serve as a member of the Covina-Valley Unified School District Board!
Simon Wright, Sir Oliver Wright’s grandson, resides with his family in West Covina, Southern California. His father, a Briton, married a woman from New Mexico. Today, Mr. Wright serves as the Vice President of his family’s property management business and is a licensed real estate broker specializing in sales and management throughout Southern California.
Last year, Mr. Wright was elected to serve on the Covina-Valley Unified School District Board. His ability to connect with the community made it easy for voters to choose him for the position. It wasn’t something he initially desired. He prefers a quiet, private life, and running for office was about trying something new and stepping out of his comfort zone.
Simon Wright emphasizes that the key to success lies in the ability to sit and listen. He also observes that individuals are driven by personal goals, and the people they surround themselves will determine their individual success.
Mr. Wright might have gleaned insights from interacting with East African immigrants, which could have inspired some of the policy changes he intends to introduce in the school district. He shared that one of the aspects he admires about East Africans is their proficiency in various trades, likely stemming from an education system that emphasizes self-reliance. And to this end, he has introduced Aviation as a course at Covina High School. Students there learn everything necessary for a future in the aviation industry.
Understanding the needs and aspirations of the school district is partially derived from his own education in the district, where his three children also attend. He aims to ensure that students acquire the necessary tools and skills to prepare them for life.
Mr. Wright is one of the guest speakers at the MBK networking event this Saturday, October 21st, and will be sharing about developing a winning mentality.