Partners in Education and Life: William Penn Professors Guide Students to Success

02/14/2025

Professors Samantha Allen Wright and Wilton Wright have not only dedicated their careers to guiding students but have also found a way to blend their shared passion for education into their personal lives. Their collaboration on the book Strategies for Student Success in Higher Education: The First-Year Experience is a testament to their commitment to student success and their deep connection as partners in both work and life.

Having worked together long before they became a couple, Samantha and Wilton Wright found it natural to co-author a chapter that explores how humanities courses can help undecided students discover their academic paths. “Most of the ideas from this chapter stem from conversations we’ve had over the years,” Samantha explains. “We’re always looking for projects to collaborate on, so when we saw this call for chapters, we immediately started brainstorming.”

Their work together is not just about research—it’s a reflection of their strong relationship. “Life is short, and our goal is to spend as much time together as possible,” Samantha shares. While they have yet to co-teach a class, they both agree that their strengths complement each other in research. “We’ve always communicated well, and we both know we will do our part,” Samantha adds.

Their chapter focuses on how humanities courses at William Penn University serve as a guiding tool for undecided students. By engaging with disciplines such as English, theatre, art, and music, students are encouraged to think beyond the traditional view of education as mere job training. “The Humanities encourage us to think about the world we want to be a part of—the world we want to make,” Samantha says. Through their advising approach, they create a welcoming environment while empowering students to take ownership of their education.

One particularly memorable success story involved a student torn between biology and nursing. Samantha recalls, “He told me that some of the readings and class discussions we had made him feel as if he had a calling for caring for people in a more hands-on way, and he went into nursing.” It’s these kinds of moments that reaffirm their belief in the power of humanities education.

Both professors always knew they wanted to teach. Coming from larger universities themselves, they value the intimate and supportive environment that William Penn University offers. “WPU really is a family, and it’s fun to be able to spend time with students to help them develop and grow,” they say.

As a couple, they encourage others who wish to work together professionally to “force each other to eat food regularly when working and make sure you BOTH back up your work.” While they’re currently focused on their individual research projects, they know another collaboration is just around the corner.

Their work, both inside and outside the classroom, exemplifies the dedication and warmth that define William Penn University. Through their research, advising, and shared mission, Samantha Allen Wright and Wilton Wright continue to shape the futures of their students while strengthening their own partnership.

For more information on their chapter and the book Strategies for Student Success in Higher Education: The First-Year Experience, visit: https://www.cambridgescholars.com/product/978-1-0364-0845-9.