American University’s Vice President and Chief Information Officer David Swartz was awarded EDUCAUSE’s 2012 Leadership Award in Denver, CO before an audience of industry professionals. The recognition is EDUCAUSE’s highest honor, and is given to individuals whose achievements have had a significant and positive impact on advancing the theory and practice of information technology in higher education. 

Swartz was recognized for his dedication to demonstrating the value of information technology to fulfill AU’s mission and for his overall service to the IT profession. Swartz’s leadership in the university’s IT functions has been instrumental in the promotion of AU’s goal to employ technology to empower excellence as well as to encourage innovation and high performance. Among his accomplishments at AU, he introduced industry-standard best practices in IT service management, strategic planning, project management, information security, technology operations, and enterprise infrastructure life-cycle planning. He also was one of the first CIOs at an institution of higher learning to recognize the need for the role of the chief information security officer to build a strong security program.

“It is a nice recognition to be acknowledged by your many peers. It is even more wonderful to read the many letters of support from the leadership, faculty, and staff from American University. I was able to gain this recognition only because I am able to stand on the shoulders of the great people here at American University who have helped and supported our efforts within the Office of Information Technology. These unsung heroes have my thanks and appreciation,” said Swartz. 

Associate Chief Information Officer Kamalika Sandell noted, “Dave’s successes can’t be measured simply by the sum total of the countless projects that he’s delivered. His greatest success is the tremendous impact that he’s had on all the people he’s worked with. Dave is a true visionary with a wealth of technology forethought and an enthusiasm and energy that supports it. He is a leader within our industry and truly deserving of this recognition.”  

In addition to recognizing Swartz for his achievements, EDUCAUSE also contributed $3,000 to support emergency student financial aid at AU on his behalf. 

EDUCAUSE is a nonprofit association that represents IT leaders and professionals who are committed to advancing higher education. Their programs and services focus on the role of IT on analysis, advocacy, community building, professional development, and knowledge creation in higher education.