Associate dean of students Danny Glassmann has made his way across the Southeast but has found his home in Big Orange Country. Danny grew up in a small town in rural northeast Arkansas, called Pocahontas. He ventured away from home to attend the University of Central Arkansas, where he discovered his passion for higher education and student affairs through his campus involvement. Danny has served in roles ranging from residence life to student conduct to the Dean of Students office at Elon University, the University of Georgia, and Oglethorpe University.
Here at UT, he’s directly responsible for the Center for Leadership and Service, Center for Student Engagement, Office of Sorority and Fraternity Life, and Office of Student Media. In addition, he has served as the administrative Liaison to the Pride Center that provides a safe and welcoming 
environment for UT’s diverse LGBTQ+ communities and their allies.
In his spare time when he isn’t enjoying events and programs on campus, he loves staying active, traveling, and spending time with friends, family, and his two pugs, Ebony and Cooper, and his newest rescue pup, Sadie.
What makes you unique? Tell us about your journey.
As an article in my hometown newspaper once wrote of me, I have never been afraid to tumble over barriers, no matter how big or small. In the seventh grade, I became the first male cheerleader in my junior high school and later cheered all four years in college, even holding a collegiate national championship title. In my role in the Office of the Dean of Students, my love for cheering for others still continues as I get to root and champion every day for the success of all of our Vols!
What tips do you have for students?
Three pieces of advice I like to give students: (get to) know yourself, be yourself, and use yourself (for the service of others). UT has so many opportunities for every student to get to know themselves and learn about others different from themselves. Take advantage of ALL the classes, programs, and events to learn more about who you are, what you enjoy, and passions that you can explore. To help you do this, consider participating in the Lunch Hours program or the Leadership Studies Minor. On the journey of self-discovery, embracing and being who you are is critical. UT has so many opportunities and ways for you to use and contribute your talents and skills and in your time at the university you are encouraged to make an impact and leave a legacy. By knowing, being, and using yourself during your time on Rocky Top, you’ll not only be more successful, you’ll make a difference!
What does the “Volunteer spirit” mean to you?
To me, the Volunteer spirit means using both our heads and our hearts for the good and service of others and our diverse community. It means treating others as they want to be treated and always remembering to pay it forward. Being a Volunteer means bearing our torches so that others can be inspired and encouraged to bear their own. The shared Volunteer spirit that is ignited in every Vol is a lifelong commitment to leadership and service for the betterment of ourselves, our communities, and our world. And, it means ALWAYS showing school spirit by wearing Orange on Fridays, no matter where or who you are with! GO VOLS!
What are some of your favorite spots on campus?
Walking through Circle Park and by the Torchbearer statue on the way to the Office of the Dean of Students in the Student Services Building has to be one of my favorite spots because of the beauty of the park and the meaning and symbolism of the Torchbearer. The Pride Center in Melrose Hall is another place that I feel at home and truly inspired by the close-knit and resilient community that exists there. And, although not quite on campus, I also love connecting with students over a cup of local coffee at the quaint and homey Golden Roast coffee house.