The Wright Institute
Berkeley, California - United States
The Wright Institute Board of Trustees seeks a visionary, relationship-oriented leader to serve as its third President. Following on the long and successful tenure of President Peter Dybwad, the next President will have the singular opportunity to honor The Wright Institute's distinctive heritage while guiding its future evolution.
The Wright Institute (the Wright) is a thriving independent graduate institution in Berkeley, California, serving approximately 530 students through its Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology and Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology programs. Its distinctive educational model is characterized by intensive faculty-student mentorship, early clinical engagement, reflective practice, and a deep commitment to preparing professionals who serve diverse and often underserved communities. Graduates are recognized for their professional competence, ethical leadership, and commitment to advancing mental health and well-being. Strong student outcomes, including exceptional professional licensure and internship placement success, reflect a culture of academic rigor and student support at the Wright.
The Wright stands at a defining moment in its distinguished history. Founded by renowned psychologist and educator Nevitt Sanford, the Wright was established on a bold vision: to prepare reflective, ethical professionals capable of addressing both individual and societal challenges through the integration of clinical practice, critical inquiry, and social responsibility. More than five decades later, that vision remains central to the Wright's identity and continues to attract students, faculty, and partners who seek to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
The next President will assume leadership of a graduate institution that combines mission-driven purpose with exceptional organizational strength. Through decades of thoughtful stewardship, The Wright Institute has built a strong financial foundation: The 2026-27 operating budget is $18,750,000. The amount of the reserves and quasi-endowment is $26 million. The Wright has no long-term debt and a history of prudent investment in programs, facilities, and strategic priorities. This financial stability provides a platform for innovation, growth, and long-term sustainability while preserving the values that have defined the Wright throughout its history.
The presidency comes at a pivotal and carefully planned moment. Following a multi-year succession strategy, the Board of Trustees has undertaken a thoughtful leadership transition process that includes Board renewal, broad stakeholder engagement, and a comprehensive national search. The Wright is intentionally positioning itself for its next chapter while maintaining continuity of mission, culture, and governance.
The next President will have the opportunity to build upon a highly regarded educational model, strengthen the Wright's impact within the mental health professions, foster a culture of inclusion and belonging, and navigate the opportunities and complexities facing higher education and behavioral health training. Equally important, the President will join a community deeply committed to reflective practice, collaborative engagement, and the preparation of ethical professionals capable of contributing meaningfully to society.
For accomplished leaders who are inspired by mission, energized by thoughtful dialogue, and motivated by the opportunity to advance both institutional excellence and social impact, the Wright offers a compelling and rare presidency. Beginning in the summer of 2027, the next President will lead an academically respected, financially strong, and values-centered institution uniquely positioned to shape the future of graduate education in psychology and counseling while continuing to fulfill its enduring mission of service to society.
WittKieffer is assisting The Wright Institute in this search. Applications, nominations, and inquiries are invited. Applications should include, as separate documents, a curriculum vitae and a letter of interest addressing the opportunities and qualifications outlined in the leadership profile. For fullest consideration, candidates are encouraged to submit their materials by December 1, 2026. Please submit all applications, nominations, and inquiries through the WittKieffer Candidate Portal by clicking the buttons above or below. New users should select “Register Here” to create an account before proceeding. After logging in, navigate to “Open Positions” and locate the role by entering The Wright Institute in the search field.
Nominations and inquiries may also be directed to Charlene Aguilar, Ed.M., Melody Rose, Ph.D. and Sarah Seavey at [email protected]
The salary range for the position is anticipated to be $500,000 to $550,000. The final compensation package will be commensurate with experience, qualifications, and leadership accomplishments.
The Institute prohibits discrimination based on race (including traits historically associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, religion, creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.