Ned will be remembered not only for his many accomplishments, but also for his passion and enthusiasm for the world around him. Whether he was fishing, hunting, birding, lecturing, fundraising, teaching, digging or holding court with his family at the breakfast table, he was always telling stories – great, wonderful, larger-than-life stories that were impossible to forget. He was a teacher in the truest sense of the word, always willing to take time out to share his extensive knowledge and experience with a willing audience!
To those of you who had the privilege of knowing Ned and/or reading his book, we invite you to share your feelings, memories and stories about Ned with us. Help us to celebrate a wonderful life!
I was at The Gunnery in 1962. My left leg was literally cut in two in a football game – freak accident. They were going to amputate it at one point. I was in the hospital for months but hobbled back to school. Ned told me (and the rest of the school) at a chapel service that he saw a flower bloom out of the sidewalk – right after seeing me return. He said that this was a true sign that recovery would be complete. Well – We all kind of snickered. I went on to earn 6 Varsity letters at The Gunnery and to be a member of the Penn rowing team that won 3 NCAA national rowing championships – and represented the USA- despite a paralyzed left foot.
Ned’s positive attitiute and faith was key to the recovery and my determination.
-Bob Fountain, Gunnery, 1964 – Penn, 1968, Wharton MBA, 1970
I only knew of Ned by sight, but spent many hours as a child at the American Indian Institute he founded. I was amazed by it and have many fond memories of studying the displays and information held therein. Without his foundation, I would not have been exposed to the native americans of our land. Ned Swigart created a very worthwhile and valuable educational opportunity and we are fortunate to have access to it.