The proclamation recognized the Wrights for their achievements, including James Wright's work with veterans, and wished them luck following the president's retirement from the College, effective this coming June. New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch had planned to attend the meeting in person to issue the proclamation, but was in Washington, D.C., on business, according to Doug Wise '59, chairman of the Chamber's Board of Directors.
The award from the Chamber recognized James and Susan Wright for their service to the College and the relationship they have fostered between Dartmouth and the Upper Valley community.
The Chamber has never before presented a community spirit award, according to executive director Janet Rebman, but decided to honor the Wrights in their last year at the College because they demonstrate how different groups can work cooperatively to form one community.
"They're exemplary in our mission that we are one community," she said.
After accepting the award, James and Susan Wright spoke about how Hanover has changed since they first arrived in the town 40 and 30 years ago, respectively. Susan Wright discussed her experience working with volunteers at a local book sale, and James Wright mentioned several Main Street businesses, including a cigar store, that existed 40 years ago.
"Even though the feel of so many parts of our world has changed, that sense of community has stayed," James Wright told the audience of approximately 70 people.
James and Susan Wright said they believe Dartmouth has always had a strong connection with Hanover,
"I think the important thing is the way Dartmouth staff and students are involved with the town," James Wright said in an interview with The Dartmouth. "The students are always the energizing force here."
Wise also emphasized the importance of students in Dartmouth's relationship with the town, but said many students think the community ends at the Collis Center.
"A lot of students don't know downtown exists," Wise said. "These are businesses and organizations that welcome students. The problem is stores close early, students work late."
Although James and Susan Wright will leave their home on Webster Avenue this year, they will remain in the area and look forward to continuing to be a part of the Upper Valley community, James Wright said at the meeting.
They did not specify where they might move.
"We'll be in the neighborhood," Susan Wright told The Dartmouth.
The Chamber is a nonprofit group consisting of 350 local businesses and organizations, including the College and some of its departments and divisions.
