Hannibal-LaGrange University (HLGU) is pleased to announce Chris and Emma Wright as the recipients of the 2024 Young Alumni Award. This honor is awarded to graduates who have made significant achievements in their professions, serve as exemplary Christian leaders, and maintain a strong commitment to the university’s values. The Wrights’ dedication to their family, faith, and careers exemplifies HLGU’s motto, “Knowledge for Service,” in inspiring ways.
Emma Hayden Wright, a 2013 HLGU graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, has dedicated herself to the field of medicine. After earning her Doctor of Osteopathy degree from A.T. Still University in 2018, she completed a Pediatric Residency at the University of Missouri in Columbia. Since 2021, Emma has served as a full-time general pediatrician at Hannibal Regional Medical Group, where she is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Her approach to medicine is deeply rooted in the values she cultivated at HLGU, which taught her to see God as the ultimate physician and to serve with compassion. She shares, “I enjoy helping people… and am reminded often that we were created to have servant-like hearts.” Emma is also actively involved in her community through Calvary Baptist Church and enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and attending musicals.
Chris Wright, a 2011 HLGU graduate with a degree in Criminal Justice, began his career in the prison system and later transitioned into retail management to support his family during Emma’s medical training. In 2023, he returned to HLGU, where he now assists with the Shotgun team and Men’s Golf Team. Under his leadership, HLGU anticipates the launch of a women’s golf team in 2025. For Chris, HLGU was pivotal in his spiritual journey, and he feels privileged to give back to the community that helped shape him. “God used HLGU as the vessel to reach me and bring me to Christ,” Chris reflects. “Now, I am honored to be able to serve others on this campus.” Chris is also a devoted member of Calvary Baptist Church and an involved father, proud to be guiding his children in their spiritual journeys.
Together, the Wrights are the proud parents of four children: Abel, Max, Lettie, and Noah. They cherish family time and are grateful for the supportive network of HLGU friends, mentors, and colleagues who have encouraged their growth in faith and purpose.
The Young Alumni Award was presented during Hannibal-LaGrange University’s Homecoming Weekend on November 8-9, 2024. This award recognizes alumni under the age of 35 who have demonstrated notable professional success and an unwavering commitment to HLGU’s mission and Christian values.