As vice president and civic and community leader at the Springfield design firm, Swan is responsible for leading a group of 10 architects and interior designers who are expected to produce $1.4 million in fees from roughly $23 million in construction.

Still, he’s not afraid of tackling more work.

“In the coming year, I would most like to obtain my certification as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design accredited professional,” he says. “This is really more of a personal goal than a professional goal, because I believe that the key to developing a healthy environment for my children starts with building smart today.”

Swan is the current president of the Springfield chapter of the American Institute of Architects, and he’s active with Rotary Club.

He also happens to be a certified Eucharistic and liturgical minister through the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau.

Swan’s community service dates back to his time at Drury University, where he served on the Curriculum Advisory Committee in 1999 and the Hammons School of Architecture Director’s Search Committee in 1997.

He has since given his time as a member of the Eugene Field Elementary PTA as part of its Watch DOGS program, through which students’ fathers volunteer to provide school security and support students in their regular daily activities. He’s also volunteered for Artsfest and the Springfield Holiday Parade, and he’s been a Salvation Army bell ringer.

Swan says he is driven to make Springfield the best place he can.

“I think for me, it is about building relationships and serving the community,” he says. “I’m committed to living here and raising my children here, so I want to do whatever I can to make Springfield as good a place to live as possible.”

Swan believes the best way to lead is by example and with respect. He’s a current member of Leadership Springfield, Class XXIII, and in 2007, he served on the Missouri board of the American Institute of Architects.

He also serves local students of all ages with periodic workplace shadow opportunities and as a critic of design projects.

Double Play

Birth date: March 3, 1975

Family: I have been married to my wonderful wife, Jennifer, for almost 10 years, and we have three daughters: Ellie, 7; Avery, 4; and Emmy Lou, 2. Our favorite family activities include cooking, going to the park and listening to bluegrass music.

Philosophy to live/work by: Speak like you are right; listen like you are wrong. It is important to be confident in your beliefs, but also to listen closely to others and understand their points of view.

In a fantasy world, which professional sport would you play? Tennis. I love being able to hit a ball over and over to release stress. Finding the time to play – now that is a sport!