09/19/2026
From our Owner & Executive Director, D. J. Daniel James Wright: “I am beyond humbled… I have always said Drew University taught me how to learn how to “think” and for that I am eternally grateful. DREWIDS are probably some of the most genuine and grounded people I know and the environment to learn and grow into thinkers based on respect, compassion and love is unparalleled. I do not feel I’m remotely worthy of this honor, but I am truly grateful and hope that I can, in some way, continue to help this most special place. If anyone reading this would like, please make a small contribution in my name and I can assure you it will go directly to supporting the University Psychology Department whose professors instilled in me the lenses to always fight for the rights of ALL people and to see them in their light. If you can make it to reunion, I’d love to see you at the ceremony and get and give a hug in a world that sorely needs more of them. NAMASTE my friends. With love and respect, D. J.”
Join us on Saturday, October 17 for the Alumni Achievement Awards!
Daniel James “D.J.” Wright C’01 graduated with a major in psychology & minors in philosophy & French, & later graduated summa cm laude from the McAllister Institute of Funeral Service. As owner of Wright & Ford Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, D.J. has distinguished himself by combining compassionate service with an innovative approach to supporting grieving families. Guided by his vision of “Traditional Values, Modern Concepts, Golden Rule Service,” he was among the first funeral home owners in NJ to introduce a support-dog program. The program was inspired by his best friend, chocolate Labrador Retriever, Tammy, who provided love & compassion to all who entered the funeral home. More recently, he acquired The Max Challenge locations in Flemington & Clinton, forming The Max of Hunterdon, & incorporated fitness & nutrition into the funeral home’s aftercare program. Through these initiatives, D.J. has expanded the traditional role of a funeral home while demonstrating a distinctive blend of entrepreneurship, innovation, & community care.
D.J. is Past-President of the NJ State Funeral Directors Association, representing funeral directors across the state & at the national level through the National Funeral Directors Association. He believes everyone should have some form of Life Celebration and views his role as a “guide” during some of life’s most trying moments. He conducts seminars on a wide array of topics related to the profession, ranging from coping skills to green funerals, for consumers & allied professionals including physicians, attorneys, nurses, and clergy. He is passionate about education & opening dialogue about these often taboo topics.
D.J. also serves in leadership roles with numerous community & charitable organizations and is a past board member of the Drew CAA. He has been honored numerous times by organizations throughout Hunterdon County for his professional contributions and volunteer service.
Register today!: drew.edu/university-advancement/events/rangers-reunite
