I am looking how to create a transition where a glow effects fills the entire scene and essentially overpowers the image. Does anyone know how to do this?

try keyframeing a lens flare so it starts small and grows into a bright glow and covers the image...

what software are you using ?

In after effects you could create a new adjustment layer with a levels effect keyframed over it.

In premiere you could crossfade to a white image, or keyframe a white image on a higher tracks opacity

hope that helps !