June 16, 1857 - May 19, 1927

Joseph Swain was born on June 16, 1857 in Pendleton, Indiana. He graduated with both a bachelor's degree (1883) and a master's degree (1885) from Indiana University. Swain's teaching career began at Indiana University where he served as instructor in mathematics and biology, 1883-1885; as associate professor of mathematics, 1885-1886; and professor, 1886-1891. When David Starr Jordan went as president to Leland Stanford University, Swain followed him as professor of mathematics., 1891-1893. He then accepted the invitation to return to Indiana University as president, 1893-1902.

Swain was a member of the Quaker faith, and, though successful at Indiana University, he felt a strong impulsion to accept the invitation to Swarthmore College, where he served as president from 1902-1921, when he retired as president emeritus. Swain died on May 19, 1927.

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