Spirit in action: Jaylen Glenn '28

Jaylen Glenn ’28 soars into the air, landing flawlessly before a roaring crowd. Whether it’s basketball, football or any other sporting event, on the sidelines, he isn’t just performing stunts — he rallies his teammates, leads chants, and lifts the spirit of everyone in the stands. As the only man currently on Lenoir-Rhyne University’s spirit team, Glenn balances athletic precision with leadership on the field and across campus.

Glenn, a human and community services major, said he immediately felt welcomed at LR after transferring from Wingate University. Mentors across campus — from residence life staff to admissions counselors — helped him find his footing, giving him a strong foundation for involvement in cheer, leadership roles and campus engagement.

“I was nervous coming to a rival school,” he said, “but the community here made the transition smooth. I quickly realized this was a place where I belonged.”

Cheer has long been central to Glenn’s college experience. “I admired the confidence and strength of male cheerleaders, and I was all about uplifting the women on my team — they were like my sisters.” = 

Beyond game-day performances, he mentored teammates and participated in community outreach. “We did camps for kids during football season, fundraised downtown and visited nursing homes. Seeing those smiles made it all worth it.” 

His involvement stretched into campus life as well. “Being a resident assistant (RA) and a Bear of Distinction tour guide taught me how to advocate for people and support the community,” Glenn said. Through these roles, he engaged with prospective students, peers and campus leaders, developing leadership skills that would serve him in any career. LR’s supportive culture, he noted, made this possible. “I’ve even communicated directly with President McGee and Dean Titus. Knowing I had those connections was surreal.”

Academically, Glenn said he was drawn to social work for its hands-on approach. “I want to work in mental health counseling and eventually open my own practice,” he said. “Psychology gives you the facts, but social work lets you solve problems and make a real impact.” 

LR provided tools and resources to help him achieve these goals — from transfer-specific first-year experience courses to study halls and the writing center. “Being around people who were driven has helped me stay on track and build confidence,” he said.

Growing into his multiple roles at LR has been transformative. “Cheer saved my life when I was in a dark place. It gave me purpose and kept me grounded,” Glenn said. Combined with leadership positions on campus, he learned to advocate for himself and others while balancing athletics, academics and community service with poise.

Looking ahead, Glenn plans to graduate in May 2028 and pursue graduate studies. “If there’s one thing I hope people take from my story, it’s that LR helps you find your purpose. Whether it’s through athletics, leadership or academics, you can be a voice for yourself and others. You learn your worth and how to support those around you.”