C-SC alum, Harvard administrator to speak at Kraus Lecture on Wednesday

CANTON, MO — Culver-Stockton College’s Kraus Lecture featuring alumnus Jonathan L. Swain, Class of 1992 will take place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, in Meaders Lounge in the Gladys Crown Student Center. This event is free and open to the public.

Swain will share his insights and experiences in public affairs, strategic communications and leadership across higher education, government and the private sector.

Swain is the assistant vice president for university communications at Harvard University, where he leads communications strategy and issues management for the nation’s oldest institution of higher education. His work helps advance Harvard’s mission in teaching and research through collaborative efforts across the University.

From 2009 to 2013, Swain played a significant role in shaping President Barack Obama’s economic recovery efforts following the Great Recession. He served as assistant administrator for Communications and Public Liaison at the U.S. Small Business Administration and later as chief of staff to SBA administrator Karen G. Mills, a member of Obama’s cabinet.

Swain’s career in public service also includes key communications roles for U.S. Senator Evan Bayh, Indiana Governor Joseph E. Kernan and Indiana First Lady Judy O’Bannon. In 2008, he served as communications director for Hillary Clinton’s Indiana primary campaign and Barack Obama’s historic general election win in Indiana.

Swain has led strategic communications and external relations for private sector organizations such as Angie’s List (now Angi) and FedBid, Inc.

A native of Kennett, Mo., Swain earned his bachelor’s degree in journalism from Culver-Stockton and a master’s in public relations from Ball State University.

The Kraus Lecture series holds special significance at Culver-Stockton College, established by Joe W. Kraus in memory of his wife, Kathryn Elizabeth (Betsy) Curtright Kraus. Both Joe and Betsy Kraus were alumni of Culver-Stockton College, with Joe earning undergraduate degrees in English and library science.