| Honored by: | Mr. and Mrs. Mel Shanda |
| Brick location: | E:27 map |
Born, raised, and educated in Webster City, Iowa. Received a B.S. degree from Iowa State. Married Don C. Swanson and had three daughters, Cristine, Jean, and Martha. Moved to Des Moines in 1949. Has served on numerous committees and boards in Des Moines all with school, church, city, and political, connections. Girl Scouts, United Way, and Red Cross, are among her primary interests. She was the first woman to serve on a Draft Board in Polk County. In 1980, received Sertomas Service to Mankind award. In 1986, received Protestant of the Year National Conference of Christians and Jews. In 1988, Woman of Achievement by the Y.W.C.A. In 1991, Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from Grand View College. In 1992, East Des Moines Citizen of the Year. Given the Key to the City of Des Moines in 1993. She was president of the Botanical Center board during the center's construction. Also she is a Tri Delt Alumnus and active at the present in the AAUW.
Submitted on 2/6/98