From her standing desk in the Jackson Campus Center, she might just have the best view on campus—not an iconic Gustavus vista like Old Main Hill or Christ Chapel’s spire, but the full breadth of the Gustie student experience.
As the executive assistant in the Dean of Students office, Swanberg is often the first point of contact when a student has something to share with “the administration.” Joy, grief, panic, interpersonal issues, and policy questions walk through her door every day. She is a calming presence and a consummate professional, supporting students and keeping the office running smoothly, pivoting from one request to the next.
Swanberg joined the Gustavus community in 2003 as the administrative assistant for the Department of Campus Safety. It was the perfect training ground for her current role, which she’s held since 2008. Her history at the College and insight into today’s students made Swanberg an easy pick for the Presidential Search Committee, where she partnered with 12 other committee members to help recommend Dr. John Volin to the Board of Trustees to serve as the 18th President of Gustavus. “Students are at the center of everything we do at Gustavus,” she says. “I was glad to bring that lens to the Presidential Search Committee.” What stood out to her about new President John Volin? “His commitment to the holistic student experience is unmatched. Dr. Volin understands that a well-rounded undergraduate experience is about learning in the classroom, yes, but also so much more than that.”
When she’s not on the Hill, Swanberg enjoys Minnesota’s seasons, watching hockey, and spending time with her loved ones, including nine grandkids. “I try to help provide the kind of experience for Gustavus students that I’d want my own children and grandchildren to have. That means being supportive but not overbearing, and challenging them to solve their own problems while acknowledging whatever it is that they might be going through,” she says.
“And sometimes, I just offer a piece of candy and listen.”
