Local woman honored with leadership award

SAN MARCOS — Julie Wright, president and founder of (W)rightOn Communications, Inc., accepted the Fran Aleshire Award for her outstanding leadership and regional involvement at the San Diego North Economic Development Council’s Annual Holiday Luncheon and Awards Presentation held Dec. 3.
Each year the Leadership North County Alumni Association presents the Fran Aleshire Award to a graduate of the program who, in the spirit of Fran Aleshire, exhibits the characteristics of great leadership. Individuals are nominated by their peers. Past recipients include city of San Marcos Mayor Jim Desmond (2008), retired Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Mark Moore (2007), Escondido Mayor Lori Holt Pfiler (2006), and Vice Chair of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority Ramona Finnila (2005).
“I have increasingly come to know Julie as an influential leader in this region, one who continues to push our thinking on issues that affect government, business, healthcare, education, transportation, and housing,” said Dr. Jan Jackson, dean of extended learning and associate vice president of community engagement at Cal State San Marcos. “As a role model and mentor, Julie inspires so many of us to tackle the hard issues.”
Wright is also the chair of the board of the San Diego North County Economic Development Council, vice-chair of the President’s University Council at Cal State San Marcos, and co-founder of CanDiego, a networking organization for Canadians and Friends of Canadians in San Diego. She can often be found volunteering as soccer field marshal at regional tournaments or assisting one of numerous nonprofits. Her personal financial contributions and pro-bono services total more than $50,000 each year to organizations that support education, breast cancer research, disaster recovery, at-risk youth, international aid, and travel for cancer patients.
“Being nominated and recognized by my peers is a great honor,” Wright said. “Leadership North County has helped produce so many well-rounded leaders for the region. I’m sure Fran Aleshire would be very proud to see the impact of the program that she started.”
Leadership North County is a comprehensive leadership program by Cal State San Marcos Extended Learning to foster the growth of community leaders. The program has graduated hundreds, including several mayors, CEOs, and other public officials throughout North County.