"I am deeply committed to harnessing the power of business as a force for positive change, contributing to a more equitable and just world.”

Jill Dannis is a dedicated business leader who is deeply committed to social responsibility and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Her passion comes from her personal journey as a queer youth who often felt out of place. She was a confident and outspoken older sister at home, but at school, teachers and classmates tried to make Jill feel small. Her college years were also challenging: Jill courageously came out as lesbian while competing with a women’s rowing team at a Catholic University. Her experiences inspired Jill to make a career out of service and activism.

Jill first found purpose through volunteering with The Trevor Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing suicide among LGBTQ+ youth. Recognizing Jill’s dedication and impact, The Trevor Project hired Jill to train and supervise other counselors full time. Jill cherished the moments when she could be a lifeline for young queer people in crisis. For several years afterward, Jill continued her career in the nonprofit sector, contributing her expertise to organizations including the Point Foundation and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. She reflects, “I take immense pride in my work, which revolves around empowering students, young individuals, and future leaders from historically marginalized and excluded backgrounds.” 

In 2021, Jill opened a new chapter by enrolling in the Ross MBA program at U-M. Jill also decided to pursue an MS in Behavior, Education, and Communication from the School of Environment and Sustainability. In the long term, Jill envisions becoming a corporate social responsibility leader within a prominent technology corporation, with the objective of ingraining the principles of social responsibility at the very heart of its business strategy and organizational culture. She states, “I am deeply committed to harnessing the power of business as a force for positive change, contributing to a more equitable and just world.”

CEW+ celebrates Jill’s commitment to advocacy and names her a Margaret Dow Towsley Scholar.