Mark Glenn | At-Large Trustee

Class of 1996, UW Tacoma, Bachelors of Arts, Liberal Studies,

Class of 2001, UW Tacoma, Masters of Social Work

Why I Serve

My life is built on the foundation of serving others. I grew up as one of nine children and we witnessed the sacrifice and hard work of my parents, including the military service of my father who was a U.S. Army Vietnam-era. My older sister is a UW graduate and I saw firsthand what it meant to pursue an education. It was not given, it was earned. I resolved not only to follow in her footsteps, but to similarly inspire others.

I enlisted in the U.S. Army after high school and began taking community college courses while on active duty — full work days followed by evening classes. After serving four years in the Army I left so I could become a full-time UW student. I’ve spent the last 31 years working as a public servant. Working in the tech field, people ask why I didn’t pursue the more lucrative private sector. My calling is public service. Society needs quality, loyal people in public roles. UW embodies the idea of the greater good.

I owe who I am to my family, military service and UW education. I took off my camouflage for a suit and tie. Now I’m rather literally wearing the role of UW ambassador. I created the character of Sergeant Husky — robed in purple and a wild hat — to introduce people to Husky spirit. I focus on outreach to veterans, kids and the wider community. A UW education is unique as a fingerprint. Use yours to serve your community with a smile and open heart.

Biography

Mark Glenn is currently the Chief Information Office and IT Director of the Washington Military Department. He served in the U.S. Army as a Telecommunications Center Specialist during the Desert Storm era. A highlight of his military career was a one-year international tour in Belgium at the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe. His equally-distinguished civilian career includes work at the VA Puget Sound Health Care System, UW School of Medicine, Department of Social & Health Services, and the Department of Early Learning. He volunteers extensively in the community and is the smiling face of Sergeant Husky.