Thomas H. Swain

Doctor of Laws

Alumni Association, August 13, 1998

Thomas H. Swain is a 1942 BSB graduate of the Carlson School of Management. He has had a stellar professional career and is highly respected as a civic leader. Professionally, Mr. Swain held leadership positions at several insurance companies, as well as holding the positions of Commissioner for the Minnesota Department of Economic Development and Chief of Staff for Governor Elmer Anderson. The University of Minnesota has been one of the major beneficiaries of Mr. Swain's fine public service, from his days in the Athletic Department to his role as Vice President for Institutional Relations during the past couple of years. He has served the Alumni Association as its national president; he has been a driving force on the University of Minnesota Foundation, and he has provided leadership on the Regent Candidate Advisory Council. In all of these diverse and powerful positions, Mr. Swain has demonstrated that he is an excellent communicator, problem solver, and leader. Mr. Swain clearly has a deep devotion to his community and sets an example by his extensive community involvement. He is involved in professional organizations such as the Minnesota Compensation Council and the Commission on Judicial Selection, and he is also a leader in numerous social service and cultural organizations, such as the Elder Learning Institute and the Friends of the St. Paul Public Library fundraising drive. Thomas H. Swain is truly a remarkable statesman and servant for the University and the State of Minnesota.