Creating opportunities for students to connect, grow, and discover their purpose is the driving passion behind Paul Wright’s work at Bushnell University. An alumnus with a Bachelor of Science in Communications, Wright was a member on two consecutive NSCAA National Championship basketball teams in 1997–98 and 1998–99, both of which were inducted into the Bushnell Athletics Hall of Fame in 2023. He now serves as the university’s director of student programs, overseeing student activities, intramurals, new student orientation, student leadership, and more, always with the goal of helping students flourish in every aspect of their college experience.
Wright returned to Bushnell after completing his master’s in organizational leadership at Capital Seminary, an extension of Lancaster Bible College. He was drawn back by the transformational impact of his own time as a student. “I experienced a lot of life transformation in those years,” he recalls. “That’s why I was drawn to come back, to encourage students in this season of their life.” Since then, he has become a trusted mentor and advocate on campus, known for creating welcoming spaces that foster belonging, growth, and faith integration.
In addition to leading student programs, Wright collaborates with faculty, staff, and community leaders to provide opportunities for students to build relationships, discover passions, and grow in confidence. His leadership extends to signature campus traditions like Beacon Nights, Family Weekend, and orientation, as well as advising the Associated Students of Bushnell University (ASBU).
We recently caught up with Wright to learn more about his favorite spaces on campus, what inspires his work with students, and the advice he offers to those beginning their own Bushnell journey.
Building Community on Campus
One of Wright’s favorite spots is the Quad — the vibrant hub of student life. “It’s beautiful, but it’s also where so much student life comes alive,” he says. From orientation’s Water Wars and Beacon Night karaoke to movies under the stars, the Quad brings people together. “I love hanging out there, whether it’s talking with students, playing volleyball, or just seeing everyone connect.”
That sense of connection extends beyond campus. Wright often helps students engage with local community leaders, giving them opportunities to explore passions and chart new paths. “Creating spaces for students to connect not only with staff and faculty, but also with leaders outside of campus, has been amazing,” he shares. “Seeing those connections spark passion and purpose is one of the most rewarding parts of my work.”
Helping Students Discover Their Purpose
At the heart of Wright’s work is helping students grow into who they are called to be. “I love seeing students come alive when they realize what they’re passionate about. Helping them dream up an event, watching them follow through, and then seeing their confidence grow — it’s powerful.”
That combination of discovery, leadership, and belonging fuels his passion for student development. “Encouraging students to integrate faith into every aspect of their journey is central to what we do here,” he says.
Outside of Bushnell, Wright is also a longtime musician with multiple albums and collaborations to his name. Most recently, he released GODS SONGS, his latest project in a creative journey that parallels his work with students. Through writing and performing songs that explore faith, worship, and calling, Wright models the integration of artistry and vocation that he encourages in his students. He also produced Bushnell’s album Be a Beacon, featuring original songs written and performed by Bushnell students as part of the University’s Songwriters Showcase, mentoring them in both songwriting and recording.
Advice for Students
Wright’s encouragement for students is simple: get involved. “Bushnell feels like a family, and the more you connect — whether through clubs, intramurals, music, honors programs, or working on campus — the richer your experience will be,” he says. “You never know what you might discover about yourself, and sometimes those discoveries can change the trajectory of your life.”
Whether mentoring students, planning campus traditions, or creating music that inspires, Wright’s work is rooted in helping others flourish. Through student programs he helps shape a connected campus community where students can grow and discover their purpose.
Learn more about how Bushnell’s student programming enriches the college experience at bushnell.edu/student-programs.