Glenn established a reputation as an active, published researcher with a passion for educating young physicians. He was also a founding member of the Shock Society, which is dedicated to improving the care of victims of trauma, shock and sepsis through research, collaboration and education.
Samuel J. Strada, Ph.D., dean emeritus of the College of Medicine, said Glenn was among the founders whose “pioneer” spirit set the medical school on a course that remains in place 50 years later.
“As founding chair of the department of pharmacology, he laid a foundation of excellence in medical education and biomedical research within the College of Medicine,” Strada said. “He hired the initial faculty members, some of whom went on to have stellar academic careers in their fields of research.”
In his leadership role, Glenn also helped establish the Ph.D. program in basic medical sciences – the first doctorate program outside of medicine within the University of South Alabama – in September 1978.
The foundation Glenn built helped Strada take it in a more specialized direction.
“When I assumed the chairmanship of the department in 1983, my goals were to retain the strong emphasis on the educational program in medicine and basic medical sciences,” Strada said, “but also move the department in a direction more toward cellular and molecular models of research.”
The Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program encourages innovation, an interdisciplinary approach and tailored mentorship to help students build cutting-edge skills and critical thinking essential to advancing medical breakthroughs.
Born in Detroit and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Glenn earned a bachelor’s degree from Rockhurst College, and a master’s degree and Ph.D. from the University of Missouri-Kansas City.
He began his career in academia, but later transitioned to the pharmaceutical industry. He held senior leadership roles for several multinational pharmaceutical companies before retiring to Foley, Alabama.
Glenn devoted his time to the community, serving as president of the local chapter of the American Heart Association and chairman of the Diocesan Board of Education. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church.
A funeral will be held on June 1, 2023, at 3 p.m. at St. Margaret of Scotland Church in Foley, with visitation beginning one hour prior to the service.
