Beyond the Title: 12 Questions with Donald D. Dantzler Jr.
Donald D. Dantzler Jr.
Councilman / County Board Supervisor, City of Fitchburg / Dane County
Donald D. Dantzler Jr. serves as both a City Councilman and Dane County Board Supervisor, dedicated to improving his community through active leadership and advocacy. With a strong commitment to public service, he focuses on issues such as education, public safety, and community development. Donald is known for his collaborative approach, working across sectors to promote equity and inclusion. His experience and passion for community engagement drive his efforts to create positive change and ensure all residents have a voice. He is dedicated to building a stronger, more connected community for everyone.
01Built to Last starts with a strong foundation. What is the foundation your leadership is built on, and how do you return to it when things get shaky?
The foundations of my leadership are accountability, integrity, and discipline. When things get shaky, I revert back to my foundational principles and remind myself that leadership comes at a cost. Want shows up in conversations while expectation shows up in behavior.
02Where do you come from, and how do your roots keep you steady when leadership gets hard?
I come from a lineage of hard work and high standards. When leadership gets hard, I understand that it’s supposed to be. Nothing worth having is obtained easily and breaking generational barriers isn’t for the faint of heart.
03What's a piece of advice that has stood the test of time for you, the kind you still come back to years later?
The best piece of advice that I’ve received is that you prepare for war in times of peace and not once the battle has commenced. This metaphor doesn’t allow me to get comfortable or celebrate wins too long.
04What's a book, quote, lyric, or scripture that has stayed with you and shaped how you lead or live?
“Success is defined as the ability to move from failure to failure without the loss of enthusiasm.” — Winston Churchill
05What's something you've had to rebuild after it broke or fell apart, and what did that teach you about building things that last?
I’ve had to rebuild my perspective and mindset. I had to learn that being a good person and having good intentions isn’t enough. I had to discipline my mind by doing things daily that are hard and uncomfortable. By doing this, I prepared myself for when things really go wrong and I don’t break or fall apart.
06What's one question every leader should ask if they want to build something that outlasts them, and why?
Every leader should ask, “Am I mentally, physically, and emotionally ready to carry the burden of leadership and the pain associated with it?” I believe every leader should ask this question because it’s imperative to longevity and sustainability.
07Who are you actively preparing to carry this work forward, and what are you doing to set them up to succeed without you?
As a public servant dedicated to the future of our community, I believe it is my responsibility to not only serve today but also to prepare the next generation of leaders for tomorrow. Through my actions, whether engaging with young people, mentoring aspiring officials, or advocating for policies that promote education and opportunity, I am committed to setting a strong example. I strive to create pathways for emerging leaders to learn, grow, and succeed, ensuring they are equipped to carry the mantle of service and continue the work of building a stronger, more inclusive community.
08When leadership feels heavy, what do you turn to (music, travel, culture, faith) that restores you and keeps you feeling like yourself?
When leadership feels heavy, I turn to my core principles, my WHY, and the conviction that quitting isn’t an option.
09When you think about the legacy you want to leave, what do you hope still stands long after you've moved on?
When I reflect on the legacy I hope to leave behind, my greatest desire is to be remembered as someone who truly made a difference. I want my legacy to stand the test of time as a testament to integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment.
10What's a small daily habit or discipline that has compounded into something meaningful over time?
Many years ago, my mentor tasked me with reading the book “Miracle Morning.” In short, the book outlines the significance of winning the morning and the trickle-down effect. Since reading the book, I haven’t missed a day making my bed in the morning. It’s a simple task that seems minor but is a catalyst for success.
11What's a moment in your life where the music playing in the background ended up meaning more than you expected, a song that showed up right when you needed it, or made an ordinary moment stick with you?
At the lowest point of my life, the song “Live Through It” by James Fortune got me through it. It reminded me that tough times don’t last but tough people do.
12What's a tradition in your life or family that you hope lasts for generations?
It wasn’t passed on to me, but my goal is to create the foundation of generational wealth.