Renae Swanson arrived this fall as the new dean of the College of Education, Human Performance, and Health after previously serving as interim dean of the College of Education and Human Services at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. When not in the office, she enjoys unwinding with some knitting or spending time outdoors with her husband. Here she shares her favorite vacation place and a childhood prank that rattled her grandmother.
Where were you born?
Ideal, South Dakota
What did you dream of being when you were a child?
I wanted to be a roller-skating waitress. It looked fun!
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
My fourth-grade teacher Mrs. Pfieffer. She was incredible at seeing the best side of people and shared that gift with all of us in her class. Additionally, she ran incredible book clubs.
What was your first job?
I was a cashier at a grocery store.
What’s a talent you wish you had?
I love art and have so wished that I had more ability. However, it is kind of magical to see beautiful pieces and have no idea how they are created.
What book is on your nightstand (or tablet) right now?
I have three books going at any given time. Generally I have a thoughtful read, an easy read, and a professional development read going.
A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
How to Read a Book by Monica Wood
Never Lead Alone: 10 Shifts from Leadership to Teamship by Keith Ferrazzi with Paul Hill
What’s your favorite way to unwind?
Knitting and anything outdoors. My husband and I love to hike, fish, and camp with our dog.
Do you have any pets?
I do. We have a puggle named Pippen. He is a character. Here he is rocking his USC Upstate workwear.
What three albums would you want with you on a desert island?
This is such a hard question because it would change by the day. I love music and listen to everything. Here is my answer at this moment.
1. Any and all Prince albums (cheating, I know.)
2. Fugazi – 13 Songs
3. Tame Impala – Lonerism
What’s your favorite vacation place?
Anyplace my husband and I can tow our camper to and where our kids can join us. Door County in Wisconsin has been our favorite for a while.
What or who inspires you?
I have so many people that I look up to and are inspired by. However, most of the time I find the everyday work and successes of our students inspiring. They wake up ready to learn, explore, and grow. They breathe life into the work we do!
Favorite TV or streaming show?
Great British Baking Show
What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done?
When I was very small, I would hide snakes on my person to scare my grandma. I don’t do this anymore.
What five items (not counting pets) in your possession have special significance for you?
1. My wedding ring. My husband is my favorite person, and my ring is like carrying him with me every day.
2. I have the engagement/wedding rings from my great-great-grandfather, my grandmother, and my mother. They are so special.
3. Art that each of my children have made. We have several special objects on display in our house.
4. I have several of the family antiques that were either built by my family members and/or for them.
5. A blanket that my grandmother crocheted for me as a baby. Same grandma from the previous question.
What’s something on your bucket list?
My husband has never been able to travel overseas and I have several times. I would love to take him to show him the beautiful things I have been able to see around the world.
What’s your guilty pleasure (food, music, TV show, movie, etc.)?
Grey’s Anatomy
What’s your proudest achievement so far?
Coming here. It has been such an adventure!
If you could change something about yourself, what would it be?
I would love to be more expressive with my feelings. My children have asked me for years to share more with them about what is happening for me.
What’s your favorite thing about USC Upstate?
Hands down the people. It has been such a pleasure getting to know our students, colleagues, and the people that are part of the community around us.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I am an introvert, but because of the work I do people generally see me as an extrovert.
