Mount Vernon, VA — George Washington’s Mount Vernon mourns the passing of one of its most generous supporters, American patriot and philanthropist Karen Buchwald Wright.
“Karen Buchwald Wright embodied a unique story of patriotic commitment,” said Anne Neal Petri, Regent of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association (MVLA). “Born on the Fourth of July, and residing in Mount Vernon, Ohio, it was perhaps foreordained that Karen would dedicate time, resources, and talent to advancing George Washington and his home on the Potomac. She has left an enduring legacy for future generations, and all Americans are the beneficiaries.”
Last February, Wright received the prestigious Ann Pamela Cunningham Medal, named after the MVLA’s founder, Ann Pamela Cunningham. The medal recognizes exceptional long-term contributions—in time, talent, and resources, or a combination thereof—to Mount Vernon. It marked just the fourth time the award has been presented, and Wright was the first female recipient. Her dedication and commitment to Mount Vernon included more than twenty years of generous philanthropy as well as service on the former Advisory Committee and the current Washington Cabinet.
Doug Bradburn, President & CEO of George Washington’s Mount Vernon said, “Karen Buchwald Wright has been a steadfast supporter of the education and preservation mission of Mount Vernon for decades. There have been numerous projects we could not have undertaken without her support. She was a champion of the American experiment, and we are grateful she was dedicated to promoting the legacy of George Washington. She will be missed.”
In honor of Karen Buchwald Wright, the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association flew an American flag over the estate today to be presented to her family.
