Denise Gladd ‘14 is an all-around contributor to the Penn State community who shares her passion for education with others at Penn State on a daily basis. As a Penn State World Campus student, Denise is currently studying for a degree in organizational leadership.

Pursuing a degree was something that Denise always wanted to do, so after she joined Penn State as a staff member, she jumped at the opportunity to take classes and enrolled as a degree student in 2005. Along the way, Denise earned a Certificate in Organizational Communication and a Certificate in Labor Studies, and completing this educational journey will fulfill the dream of earning her college degree. It has been a long journey, but she feels strongly about the importance of demonstrating to others―including her two sons, who are Penn State graduates as well―that through perseverance and commitment you can accomplish anything you desire.

Denise is a former State College Agway staff member, a current University Park Outreach Engagement & Portfolio Management employee and an active volunteer within the Centre County Community. She also serves as an active Continuing Education (CE) Student Advisory Panel member and a student mentor to encourage prospective adult learners who may be nervous about returning to school to realize the benefits of taking the leap. For many adult learners who decided to enroll at Penn State, they credit their conversations with Denise as the turning point in their decision. Through her experiences as a student and volunteer, Denise says that once her degree is completed she hopes to continue, in some way, as an advocate for adult learners.

Locally, Denise is an active member of the Central PA 4th Fest advisory board and Celebrations Committee, helping to plan the activities for the day of the event and coordinate donations for “Operation Thank You” to honor our active duty military. She is also a yearly Special Olympics volunteer.