Vice President for Student Development & Services Debbie Hippolite Wright has announced her intention to retire this summer. She has worked in the Church Educational System for nearly 30 years.
“In her role as vice president, Debbie has been a voice for students,” said BYU–Hawaii President John Tanner. “She has also brought valuable perspectives as a BYU–Hawaii alumna, a former international student, a woman, a Maori, a professionally trained therapist, a parent of BYUH students, and a long-time member of the community. I am grateful for her diligent service to the University.”
In her current role, Dr. Hippolite Wright oversees all student services which include, the Dean of Students, Counseling & Disability Services, Residential Life, International Student Services, Financial Aid & Scholarship, Student Leadership & Service, Seasider Sports & Activities, Health Services, Title IX, as well as the being the university’s Title IX coordinator. She is a member of the BYU–Hawaii President’s Council and also chairs the university’s Student Development and Services Council.
A Maori who hails from the south island of Aotearoa, Dr. Hippolite Wright graduated from BYU–Hawaii, received her Masters of Social Work from Brigham Young University in Provo, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Waikato. She practiced for many years as a social worker and marriage and family therapist in Aotearoa, Hawaii, and the U.S. Mainland. Prior to her current position, she taught at BYU–Hawaii in the Social Work department for 17 years.
Her husband Chris Wright, manager of university testing & evaluation, will also be leaving the University ohana for other pursuits.
Dr. Hippolite Wright said “BYU–Hawaii will always remain close to our hearts. Chris and I were blessed to work here, all of our children were educated at BYU–Hawaii and we will always be solid supporters of the university’s mission and those who work tirelessly to bless the lives of our students. ”
A search committee to identify her successor will be announced shortly.