“In today’s fast-changing world, leadership isn’t just about managing responsibilities—it’s about navigating complexity, inspiring teams, and driving meaningful change. Yet, leaders often lack the structured support needed to grow with intention. That’s where coaching comes in,” said Whitney Newcomb, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Educational Leadership. 

Wright has been a dedicated supporter of the VCU School of Education and other university areas for many years. At the School of Education, she established an endowed scholarship, is a proud member of the Heritage Society, and has provided leadership as Chair of the school’s Advancement Council.

Transforming Leadership Through Coaching

Mary Ann Wright’s generosity will enable the Leadership Coaching Lab to provide graduate students, alums, and educational leaders with individualized and group coaching that fosters confidence, self-awareness, and strategic decision-making. 

Unlike traditional mentorship, coaching is a goal-oriented, evidence-based process that equips leaders with the tools to enhance their effectiveness, improve team performance, and strengthen resilience.

The impact is profound. When leaders have access to expert coaching, they gain:

• A clearer vision of their leadership path
• More decisive decision-making and problem-solving skills
• Improved emotional intelligence to build stronger teams
• Reduced burnout and increased resilience
• More significant impact on their schools, universities, and organizations

Newcomb’s S.H.I.N.E. Framework, a signature coaching model, will help drive the lab’s coaching model. With support from the faculty and leadership developers in the Department of Educational Leadership, students and alums will work to:

• Set meaningful goals that align with their values
• Harvest strengths to build confidence and momentum
• Imagine innovative solutions to leadership challenges
• Navigate multiple paths with agility and foresight
• Empower action to create lasting change

A Lasting Legacy of Leadership: The Enduring Impact of Mary Ann Wright’s Gift

Mary Ann Wright’s gift is more than a donation—it’s an investment in the future of education. 

“By supporting leadership coaching at all career stages, from emerging educators to seasoned executives, this initiative will strengthen individual leaders and the institutions they serve,” said Kathleen Rudasill, Ph.D., interim dean for the VCU School of Education. “Mary Ann Wright’s generosity is a testament to the power of philanthropy in shaping the future of education. By investing in leadership, she is investing in stronger schools, communities, and institutions.”

School districts, higher education institutions, and organizations that invest in coaching see greater employee engagement, stronger leadership pipelines, and more effective teams—all of which contribute to long-term success.

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Leadership

VCU School of Education Department of Educational Leadership has already shaped more than 160 current VCU leaders, 100 higher education professionals, and 300 K-12 administrators, including superintendents, principals, and executive directors. Now, with the Leadership Coaching Lab, that legacy will continue to grow—ensuring that every leader can reach their full potential.