Raymond L. Swetenburg '72
(Awarded 2012)

When young Ray Swetenburg applied for admission to Davidson, he wrote, "I believe there is more to college than getting an academic education. A person must mold his character and personality for life after college." And then he proceeded to do just that. Ray not only got a stellar education from Davidson, but he also molded his character and personality such that he holds the respect of all with whom he comes in contact.

Ray excelled at everything he attempted at Davidson. He was an outstanding student, graduating with membership in Omicron Delta Kappa, the honorary leadership and service fraternity, three different honorary societies (pre-med, physics and chemistry), and Who's Who Among American College and University Students. He also was presented the Sandy Black Pre-Med Award for excellence in pre-medical studies.

As a Davidson athlete, Ray was one of the best. He was Southern Conference champion in the high hurdles and he set school records in both the high hurdles and the triple jump. He secured the Merchant Trophy for most points scored, the Fetzer Award for his athletic excellence, and the Tommy Peters Award for his overall brilliance as a Davidson athlete. He was captain of the track team, a member of the Interfraternity Council, and president of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. A true leader indeed.

Following his graduation from Duke's medical school, Ray ultimately settled in Charlotte to begin his pediatric medical practice. Today, Ray is one of the most well-respected pediatricians in the Charlotte area and is beloved by his patients. He and his wife, Jan, continue to live in Charlotte where they raised their three children, Raymond, Jan Scott and Owen.

Ray has been an outstanding volunteer in his community, serving as a leader for Alexander Children's Home, Charlotte Latin School, Montreat, and Myers Park Presbyterian. But his real community service has manifested itself through his commitment to Davidson. Over the years since his graduation, Ray has served alma mater as an Annual Fund class agent and class chair, a member of the Davidson Athletic Foundation board, a member of the Charlotte regional campaign committee during The Campaign for Davidson, president of the Alumni Association Board and a member of Davidson's Board of Trustees. Davidson has benefitted and continues to benefit from Ray's high ideals, courage, moral and ethical conduct, and exemplary leadership.

Because you represent the very best of the Davidson family, because you are a man of genuine compassion and abundant goodness, because you define the essence of commitment and loyalty, because you have supported Davidson through the high hurdles and the long runs of life, and because you are one of our most valuable players, the Davidson College Alumni Association honors you, Raymond Lee Swetenburg, with the Alumni Service Award on the occasion of your 40th Class Reunion.