Sean Kershaw's Weblog
« Honoring our Honorees: Ben Cox | Main | Is the clock ticking on "public education" »
October 31, 2006
Honoring our Honorees: Tom Swain
Countless civic leaders have found inspiration in Tom's unwavering commitment to Minnesota's civic vitality. Tom would argue that point with you - he did with us.
His influence on public life in Minnesota is extensive, and is illustrated through the long list of his involvement with Minnesota's institutions: chief of staff to Governor Elmer L. Anderson, vice president for University Relations at the University of Minnesota (twice! and both after his official "retirement"), chair of numerous state commissions, and president of the Citizens League for the 1985-86 term to name but a few. To honor Tom's commitment to public leadership and mark his 80th year, friends and family created Thomas H. Swain Fellowship in Public Leadership at the University of Minnesota's Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs. Fully embracing the adage that it is better to rust out than to fade away, Tom, now 85, is running unopposed as the mayoral candidate in Lilydale.
We're recognizing Tom because he has led a life that embodies what the Citizens League is all about. He shows up and takes his role as a civic leader seriously, and as we work to develop new generations of civic leaders we want them to find inspiration in his example, too.
Tom commented on the recognition: "As my friend Dave Metzen observed, At the Citizens League gathering you meet the real people of our towns. They are the ones that make a difference.'
I have received more than my share of accolades, but none as meaningful as that from the Citizens League. I have been a member for over 40 years...My service on committees, the board, and as president has, without exception, been illuminating, expansive and personally productive... As my mentor Elmer L. Andersen always observed, one of the most complimentary traits in life is being recognized as a 'serious American citizen.' I try to be one."
I couldn't have said it better myself (and I didn't actually, becoming much too careless about a serious citizen)! Thanks Tom. I'm better for knowing you!
Posted by Sean Kershaw at October 31, 2006 7:07 AM