Donald D. Dantzler Jr. of Fitchburg has spent decades serving his community, drawing inspiration from mentors and role models. Among them, former President Barack Obama stands out.
“Obama is the total package: intelligent, articulate, smooth, calm and cool,” Dantzler said. “He set a standard for those of us in political office, and I try to model myself after his success.”
Dantzler, a full-time researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in the Socially Responsible Evaluation in Education Department, was elected as Fitchburg City Council Alderperson for District 3 in April of 2024.
A lifelong dream of entering politics, combined with an opportunity in Fitchburg’s spring election, led Dantzler to pursue office. When an incumbent declared non-candidacy, Dantzler seized the moment.
“I’ve learned to look at the city in a new way,” he said.
In office, Dantzler helped establish the Community Equity Ad-Hoc Committee, aimed at celebrating diverse perspectives to create a better place to live and work. The committee evaluates decisions through an equity lens, focusing on benefiting all city residents.
Another influence on Dantzler’s life is the late Kobe Bryant. A basketball fan and player in his youth, Dantzler admired Bryant’s discipline, laser focus and methodical approach to success.
“Kobe demonstrated that being well-prepared leads to good outcomes,” he said.
Dantzler’s connection to Wisconsin began 15 years ago when basketball brought him to the state. A native of Joliet, Illinois, he moved to Wisconsin to play for UW-Parkside. After two years, he transferred to UW-Whitewater, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Finance in 2011. He stayed another year to complete a master’s degree in Higher Education Leadership. Dantzler is now pursuing a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis at UW-Madison, with plans to defend his dissertation this spring.
Dantzler credits much of his success to the role models and mentors who supported him throughout his life.
“Growing up, I was glued to the basketball court,” he said. “My coaches were there for me and gave me rides home, and my family supported me. Now it’s my turn to pay it forward.”
In addition to his role on the Fitchburg City Council, Dantzler is serving his second term as Board Chairman for the Madison College District Board of Trustees. The Board oversees and sets policy, manages the President, provides fiduciary oversight and works with the executive cabinet on strategic planning. The Wisconsin Technical College System encompasses 16 schools, and trustees attend quarterly meetings to collaborate and share ideas.
Dantzler is also pursuing a position on the national board of the Association of Community College Trustees, underscoring his commitment to advocating for community colleges.
“It’s important to protect community colleges and to have a voice at the national level,” he said.
Dantzler’s involvement extends beyond higher education. He serves as Education Chair for 100 Black Men of Madison, Inc., an organization that collaborates with school districts in the greater Madison area to increase math and literacy rates, increase graduation rates and provide real-world learning experiences for youth.
He is also on the board of Junior Achievement of South-Central Wisconsin, which focuses on financial literacy for youth.
“We go into schools to teach financial literacy and invest education,” he said. “It’s important for young people to have these conversations and use the technology at their disposal responsibly. I’m here to plant the seed for financial well-being.”
Dantzler also supports local education in Fitchburg. He’s adopted a third-grade classroom at Aldo Leopold Elementary School, helping the classroom teacher with a myriad of activities and providing mentorship to students.
“I want the kids to see me as a role model,” he said. “This is especially important for African American boys. State test results at this grade level set their trajectory in literacy and math. I want to help set them up for success. The reality is, it’s very difficult for them to be what they don’t see.”
Dantzler believes in the power of community collaboration to create meaningful change.
“We all need to work together as a cohesive group to create the change we want to see,” he said.
He offers two pieces of advice for young people: find a mentor and discover your purpose.
“Mentors come in many forms. Seek out people who share common interests and don’t be afraid to ask them for guidance,” he said. “Once you find your purpose, you can work backward to build the life you want.”
Dantzler’s story is one of service, mentorship and leadership, all driven by a desire to give back to his community and create positive change for the next generation.
