Paying It Forward – Larvizo Wright (’06)

Author: Omar Dedovic

Last Updated:

Category: Featured

Larvizo Wright (‘06) with his wife, Brinkley, daughter Layla, and son Logan.

From a 14-year-old with a dream of becoming a Certified Public Accountant to a corporate leader at a Fortune 500 company, Larvizo Wright (‘06) has charted a path of purpose, gratitude and generosity. Today, as Chief of Staff to the CEO at Unum Group, Larvizo credits the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga for laying the foundation for his success and inspiring his dedication to giving back.

A Memphis native, Larvizo chose UTC for its strong College of Business, small class sizes and the scholarship support that made his education possible. Reflecting on his time as a student, he says, “UTC made a financial investment in me, and I’ve had success delivering a return on that investment.” His gratitude and success drive his dedication to the newly established 1886 Society, a group of donors committed to sustaining UTC’s future through consistent annual giving.

Larvizo’s career journey has been defined by excellence. Starting as a staff accountant in 2006, he advanced through financial reporting and internal audit roles, joining Unum in 2018. His skills in strategy, problem-solving and business risk management led to his current role in senior leadership as the Chief of Staff at Unum. He finds fulfillment in helping others and solving challenges that drive the company forward.

Giving back to UTC is a priority for Larvizo. As an executive committee member of the Alumni Board of Directors, he actively mentors students, partners with professors, and advocates for alumni engagement. As a member of the inaugural 1886 Society, he provides essential support to help UTC equip future generations of students with opportunities for success.

For him, joining the 1886 Society is about more than just writing checks; it’s about paying forward the opportunities he received. “Somebody gave to the university to make sure the doors were open when I attended. I may never give enough to have a building named after me, but I can do my part to ensure the university is here for the next generation.”

Whether he is on the sidelines, in the classroom or leading in the community, Larvizo’s passion for giving is clear. “We protect what we care about,” he says. “I encourage my fellow alumni to join me in the 1886 Society and help UTC thrive.”

Living in Chattanooga with his wife, Brinkley, and their two children, Layla and Logan, Larvizo continues to stay connected to UTC through his professional success and dedication to giving back.


1886 Society

Join Larvizo Wright and the 1886 Society in building UTC’s future.

The 1886 Society recognizes donors who make cash gifts of $2,500 or more each fiscal year (July 1-June 30). 1886 members continue a tradition of philanthropy that supports students and enriches the UTC experience today and tomorrow.

The 1886 Society builds on the legacy of philanthropists who believed in the potential of Chattanooga’s university, ensuring a bright future for generations to come.

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