Danny is a dedicated advocate for education and social justice, guided by the belief that “we are not free until we are all free.” As a first-generation American born to refugee parents who fled Laos during the aftermath of war and U.S. bombings, he carries a deep-rooted empathy for persecuted and marginalized communities. His lived experiences shape his commitment to fostering a more just, equitable, and inclusive society.

For nearly a decade, Danny has been actively engaged in the Lao community as a youth program leader, creating safe spaces for young Lao Americans to explore their cultural heritage, language, and traditions. His passion for cultural preservation and youth empowerment drives his work in bridging generational connections and strengthening cultural identity.

Currently, Danny serves as an Operations Manager for a national philanthropic organization, where he leads a team responsible for IT support, cybersecurity, and physical security. He brings over 13 years of experience in higher education, having worked extensively in diversity, equity, and student success initiatives. As an Academic Advisor, College Success Coach, and Instructor, he has supported first-generation students and students of color in Minnesota and the Washington, D.C. area, equipping them with the tools to navigate higher education and achieve their academic aspirations. His love for language and education also led him to teach Spanish at the college level, further broadening his impact in higher education.

A lifelong learner, Danny is an alumnus of the University of Minnesota and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. His passion for languages extends beyond Spanish—he also speaks Thai and Lao and has studied Japanese and Portuguese. His global perspective deepened when he took a year off to teach English in rural Northeast Thailand, where he enjoys returning to visit family.

In his free time, Danny finds joy in cozy video games, restful naps, and exploring meaningful ways to create positive change. Whether through advocacy, education, or community engagement, he remains committed to building a future where all people have the opportunity to thrive.