Unrestricted estate gifts are invaluable to the financial strength of Union College. One such generous gift was recently received from the estate of Dr. V. Warren and Thelma Swayze. Dr. and Mrs. Swayze both attended Union in the 1930’s with Dr. Swayze graduating in 1936. After several years of academy work, Dr. Swayze enrolled at the College of Medical Evangelists in 1942 to begin medical training. After graduating and completing his internship, he served two years in the military, then opened a family practice office in Muscatine, Iowa. Thelma left her career as an elementary teacher to raise her family and serve in the local church, while Dr. Swayze threw his energy into his chosen vocation. He loved working in the community and especially enjoyed delivering the newest members of the citizenry. During his 46 year career, Dr. Swayze delivered 3,000 babies, including 30 sets of twins and one set of triplets.
The Swayze connection with Union College spans several generations. Dr. Swayze’s mother, Saba Kellogg, attended Union during its first year of operation in 1891. Their two children, Dr. Victor Swayze II ’76 and Myrna Hanna ’73 both graduated from Union. A great niece also attended making four generations of Unionites. Their daughter, Myrna, reflects, “My parents always loved Union College. They had so many good memories of their time on campus.”
Union College is deeply indebted to the Swayze family and others like them with the foresight and vision to include Union in their estate plans. Gifts like these ensure a bright outlook for future generations of young people.
To find out more about giving real estate, see our giving opportunities.