August 28, 2024
Originally from Blue Rapids, Kansas, Assistant Dean of Students Megan Swartz joined the PSD in June 2024 following two years in the Social Sciences Division. Before joining UChicago, she worked at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. We interviewed Megan about her interests and experiences.
People can come to me for…
MS admissions and funding questions. You can also come to me if you want to talk about sports, particularly football and baseball!
What do you enjoy about being a part of the PSD community?
Everyone in the PSD has been so kind and inviting! It is clear people care about the work they are doing here, and I appreciate being part of a strong team.
What is the most interesting thing that you are working on right now?
I am currently working on getting the first cohort of the pre-medical postbaccalaureate program up and running for the 2024–25 academic year. This is a new type of program for the PSD, so there are lots of opportunities to problem-solve and interact with partner offices.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I’m from a tiny town in Kansas and never thought I’d live in a big city, but now I’ve lived in two—Washington, DC and Chicago. I have four kids who keep my husband and me very busy and very entertained. My favorite things to do are working in my garden/yard, going to the movies, spending time with my immediate and extended family, and taking vacations to Colorado. I also love cooking and baking. In my spare time, I coach youth softball and volleyball and work on renovating our 100-year-old home.
Who inspires you?
My parents and my four siblings.
What does diversity and inclusion mean to you?
Making sure everyone has an opportunity to be heard and supported. I personally strive to create and participate in kind and welcoming environments where there is an emphasis placed on group well-being.
Who had the most influence on you growing up?
My siblings. I have three sisters and a brother, and I’m lucky that they are all my best friends.
If they made a movie about your life, what genre would it be and who would play you?
I don’t know who would play me, but she would need to know how to drive a minivan, and it would be a comedy.
Do you have pets, and if so, what are their names?
We have a 3-year-old cat named Delilah.
What hobby do you spend the most time on?
Coaching my kids in whatever sport they are playing.
What did you want to be when you grew up? Or, what do you want to do when you retire?
I always thought I would be a teacher. Both of my parents were public school teachers, and I thought that’s what I would do too. Maybe I’ll become a substitute teacher in retirement!