April Wright, assistant professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Pennsylvania Western University, has been named PennWest California’s recipient of the 2026 Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Keepers of the Flame Award.

Established in 2022, the award recognizes individuals from each of the State System’s 14 university campuses who demonstrate a commitment to creating inclusive environments, fostering a sense of belonging and inspiring positive change.

The 2026 awards were presented Oct. 28 during the PASSHE Summit at Kutztown University.

“The Keepers of the Flame Award recognizes people whose work makes a lasting difference for our students and university communities,” said Christa Cobb, assistant vice chancellor and chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. “This year’s recipients have helped create opportunities for students to succeed, strengthened their campuses and demonstrated the impact that thoughtful, committed leadership can have on others.”

A two-time California graduate, Wright earned her bachelor's degree in communication disorders and master's degree in speech pathology before returning to her alma mater as a faculty member.

“It’s meaningful to be part of a community that helped shape my own journey and now allows me to support the next generation of speech-language pathologists,” Wright said. “I’m grateful to work alongside dedicated students and supportive colleagues who share a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.”

As director of clinical education for PennWest’s online Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program, Wright coordinates clinical experiences that prepare graduate students for careers in the field. Through virtual therapy sessions, collaborative learning opportunities and on-campus clinical intensives, she helps students develop practical skills while building connections with faculty, classmates and the communities they serve.

“Ultimately, I want our students to feel that distance does not have to be a barrier to belonging,” she said. “Even when we are miles apart, we can build meaningful relationships, learn from one another, and work together toward a shared goal of improving the lives of others.”

Wright's nomination highlighted her positive, solutions-focused leadership, dedication to mentoring colleagues and ability to strengthen relationships across PennWest's California, Clarion and Edinboro campuses.

“Fostering a sense of community is important to me because I believe that meaningful change happens when people come together around a shared purpose,” Wright said. “In speech-language pathology, our work is centered on communication, connection, and ensuring that everyone has opportunities to participate and feel included.”

Beyond the classroom, Wright has helped organize hearing screenings in local school districts, memory activities at senior centers and literacy initiatives, including the installation of a free little library in California. She also leads voice therapy and support groups for individuals with Parkinson's disease and connects students with community organizations to expand opportunities for experiential learning.

“Our community-based experiences also help students see how their knowledge and skills can make a real difference in people's lives,” she said. “Whether we’re supporting individuals with communication disorders, promoting neurodiversity, or participating in local service projects, these experiences reinforce the importance of connection and inclusion.”

In addition to her teaching and outreach, Wright serves on the Parkinson Foundation Western Pennsylvania Medical Advisory Board and provides clinical care at Jefferson Hospital's Parkinson's Center. She is pursuing a doctorate in higher education administration at Slippery Rock University.

Wright said the award reflects the collective efforts of the students, colleagues and community partners who make that work possible.

“I see this recognition not only as a personal honor, but as a reflection of what we can accomplish together when we build meaningful connections between our university and the communities we serve.”