John Michael Pantlik grew up in Memphis and graduated from the University of Tennessee as an Honors Scholar with a bachelor’s degree in Communications.

John Michael’s involvement on campus as an undergraduate at UT inspired him to pursue a career in student affairs, and he earned a master’s degree in Higher Education from the University of South Carolina.

John Michael’s career focus is building community by creating a strong sense of belonging for new students and families. He has worked in enrollment management, orientation, and student success programs at UNC Charlotte, Georgia Tech, the University of Delaware, and the University of Utah. Most recently, he served as the Director of Admissions at a premier college preparatory school in Salt Lake City.

Along with his Great Dane, Dixie, John Michael is thrilled to be home sweet home again on Rocky Top. He is grateful to be working with the team in University Honors, the same department where he first started as a Vol!

Clifton Strengths: Activator, Ideation, Strategic, Includer, Adaptability