Volunteer Spotlight: John Jarosz
Alumni Council member and chair of the Pride Alumni Affinity Network for nearly three years, John Jarosz (BA ’09) has been a steady source of vision, resilience, and community building for LGBTQ+ alumni and students at DU. Through times of celebration and times of uncertainty, Jarosz has shown up with clarity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to belonging.
Jarosz began volunteering at DU as a guest lecturer at Daniels College of Business, teaching MBA classes in Design Thinking and Product Management, and soon got involved with the Pride Network. Under his leadership, the network has launched and sustained a newsletter, coordinated DU’s presence in the Denver Pride Parade, partnered with the Denver Gay Men’s Chorus and the Newman Center, championed Lavender Graduation participation, and brought people together through vibrant and affirming local events.
“John is a nuanced leader with exceptional problem-solving skills,” says Zakiya Markland, assistant director of volunteer networks at DU. “In the midst of divestment from initiatives like the Pride Closet and Lounge and Lavender Graduation, John refuses to abandon DU. He orients himself toward possibilities, no matter how small. He is committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community — and anyone who feels othered because of their identity.”
Jarosz’s philosophy of service is deeply influenced by his own DU experience. “DU’s liberal arts roots — especially mentorship from faculty — shaped how I think and live today. Volunteering is my way of paying that forward to students finding their own path,” he reflects.
In 2020, after a decade in the software industry, Jarosz started his own company, Sightglass, a product and technology studio focused on creating organic business growth through product design, new revenue strategy, and hybrid artificial intelligence efficiencies.
“I feel strongly about DU because I grew so much there and was able to really develop into a well-rounded person,” he says. “My education helped me and will stay with me forever. I am very proud to be a successful technologist with a liberal arts degree –– it’s the secret to my success.”
