History, Vision, And Mission
History
Lois J. Swanson was the Associate Dean of Student Affairs from 1951-1970. Dr. Swanson was the first woman to hold an administrative post at CSULB. After receiving a PhD. from the University of Iowa, Dr. Swanson taught at Syracuse University and began her career in college administration at El Camino Community College. She came to CSULB in 1951 and retired in 1970, leaving a legacy of programs and traditions of student support.
During almost two decades, she was instrumental in establishing student government, the fraternity and sorority systems, leadership program, and cultural, social, and educational activities. She was involved in acquiring the Soroptomist House and Child Development Center, and in laying the framework for the University Student Union.
Lois J. Swanson was a role model and mentor to thousands of students, enriching their lives and inspiring their leadership. To help ensure that Lois’ legacy of exceptional leadership education will flourish on this campus for generations to come, the Lois J. Swanson Leadership Resource Center was established in her honor.
Vision
"Cultivating Leadership Excellence"
Mission
The Lois J. Swanson Leadership Resource Center (LRC) is a collaborative effort to develop students as effective leaders for social change. Through the adoption and implementation of the principles of the Social Change Model of Leadership*, the LRC takes a comprehensive approach to cultivating leaders who are able to affect positive change in their own lives, as well as in their organizations and communities. Cultural diversity and academic excellence are fundamental values of the Leadership Resource Center.
* Astin, A. & Astin., H. (1996). A Social Change Model of Leadership Development (Guidebook III). Los Angeles: University of California, Higher Education Research Institute.
