Christine Swanson B.A. ’73, M.A.T. ’74

Christine Swanson loves staying put and loves going away, loves being at home with her dogs Sydney and Darwin and loves exploring the world. It’s not a paradox but a way of life, first nurtured at Lewis & Clark where she thrived on residential living and thrilled at studying in New Zealand and Australia.

“Lewis & Clark gave me the confidence and skills to do anything I wanted to do. Our professors encouraged us to try different things and expected us to go full steam ahead—and I did.”

Since earning her degrees (B.A. ’73, M.A.T. ’74), she has traveled to every continent and pursued life as a teacher, travel agent, tour guide, bookstore owner, and underwater photographer while also volunteering as a court-appointed special advocate for abused and neglected children.

Keenly aware of the power of place, she is leaving her Portland house to Lewis & Clark, knowing that—like her education—the impact of her gift will evolve over time, transforming lives.