The Dee
Foundation
Board Members
Guided by a shared vision of community empowerment and excellence , our board members provide the strategic leadership necessary to advance the mission of The Dee Foundation.
CEO Of The Dee Foundation
Dr. Julian Wright
Dr. Julian Wright is a highly accomplished African American entrepreneur, actor, philanthropist,
TV talk show host, and motivational speaker based in Chicagoland, recognized internationally
for his work including features on award shows, radio, television, and collaborations with
government officials. A proud PhD holder in Business Administration, he owns JW Enterprise
Limo & Transportation and produces the "Dr. Julian Wright Show" on Hulu and PBS.
He was Inspired by his grandmother, the late Merri Dee, a renowned journalist,philanthropist
and television star. Dee was best known for her work as an anchor/reporter at Chicago
television station and national cable superstation WGN-TV. Dr. Julian emphasizes community
engagement and education, recently gaining prominence with his Vogue feature titled "Climbing
The Steps of Success" in September 2024. His charismatic personality, infectious laughter, and
humor make him a beloved figure inspiring followers worldwide, and he is soon to launch The J.
Wright Collection, a stylish men's clothing line showcasing contemporary, eye-catching dress
wear.
Dr. Wright has dedicated himself to extensive charitable work, focusing on fundraising efforts for
the homeless and victims of domestic violence. However, his most passionate endeavor is
advocating for Illinois orphans. Through community events and fundraisers, Dr. Wright has
brought significant attention to the challenges faced by orphans, striving to increase the number
of children who receive mentorship each year.
In recognition of his impactful work, Illinois Mayor Steven Streit of Lockport commended Dr.
Wright in 2020 for his remarkable achievements. Under his leadership, the number of funds and
helping hands dedicated to mentorship for youth in the state increased by over 50 percent.
Additionally, Dr. Wright is a strong advocate for education, believing that access to quality
education is essential for empowering the next generation. His commitment to these causes
continues to inspire many in the community and beyond.
Dr. Attorney Richard H Dee-Wright
Board Member
Dr. Attorney Richard H. Dee-Wright is a respected educator, pastor, retired attorney, media personality, and community leader dedicated to service, faith, and the pursuit of justice. He is the proud son of the late Merri Dee, whose legacy of community advocacy, compassion, and empowerment continues to inspire his life’s work. Dr. Dee-Wright has been married for more than 31 years to his best friend and ministry partner, Pastor Julia Ann Wright. Together they serve as pastors of God Is Able Christian Church in Orland Park, Illinois, where they are committed to uplifting individuals and strengthening communities through faith, compassion, and service.
Dr. Wright earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Roosevelt University and a Juris Doctor from the Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law. He also pursued theological studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, where he studied toward a Master of Arts in Religion with a focus on Urban Ministries. In 2024, he was awarded a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) from WWMI Bible Institute & Seminary, recognizing his dedication to spiritual leadership and ministry. Before transitioning fully into education and ministry, Dr. Wright built a distinguished career in the field of criminal justice. He served as a prosecutor, police officer, investigator, and paralegal, gaining extensive experience within the legal system and dedicating his work to justice and public service. Today, he is a retired attorney who concentrated in criminal law. In addition to his legal and academic career, Dr. Wright made a significant impact in media as the host of the popular radio program “Know Your Wrights.” From 1985 to 2000, the program aired on several Chicago-area stations including WBMX, WGCI-AM 1390, WWHN, WCFJ, and WYCA 92.3 FM. Through the show, he educated and informed listeners on legal rights, civic responsibility, and issues affecting the community.
Since October 2011, Dr. Wright has served as an educator at Rasmussen University, where he teaches in the School of Justice Studies. From 2014 to 2015, he served as the Illinois State Program Coordinator for the School of Justice Studies. He currently serves as a Professor, mentoring and educating future professionals entering the criminal justice field. In recognition of his commitment to teaching and student success, Dr. Wright received the Dr. Henry S. Bienen Award for Teaching Excellence in September 2022, honoring his impact as an educator, mentor, and leader in higher education.
In ministry and in life, Dr. Wright teaches that we live in a diverse world and must respect the cultures, beliefs, and ethnicities of all people. His passion is helping others grow spiritually, academically, and personally. His personal motto, shaped by life experience, is: “Adversity Is the Springboard to Success.”
Dr. Wright believes that by practicing these principles daily, individuals can develop habits that lead to growth, achievement, and lasting success. Through education, ministry, media outreach, and community leadership, Dr. Attorney Richard H. Dee-Wright continues to inspire others to rise above adversity, pursue knowledge, and live lives of purpose and service