Donna Swaim, Senior Lecturer in the UA College of Humanities (Religious Studies Program) and Clinical Lecturer in the UA College of Medicine, has inspired students, prison inmates, physicians, and academic colleagues to expand perceptions of self and society for over 50 years at the University of Arizona. Recipient of many teaching awards, including the 5-Star, her classes are known for challenging students to think and to reflect upon contemporary issues and their own personal lives.

Dr. Swaim has led hundreds of students on voyages all around the globe, is an Honorary Bobcat and in the U of A Hall of Fame, and has an Honors Lounge named for her in the UA Student Memorial Union. Grateful colleagues and former students have generously supported an endowment in her name, for student travel.

Dr. Swaim retired in 2014, after teaching at the University of Arizona for 50 years. In honor of her life-long service to the University and dedication to her students, the UA Foundation created the Donna Swaim International Award for Religious Studies, a scholarship that will enable academically-prepared Religious Studies majors to study the religions of the world in the context of their cultures.

To donate to the Donna Swaim International Award for Religious Studies, please click here.