Sterling College presented the 2016 William M. McCreery Teaching Award to Daniel Swartz, assistant professor of art and design, recognizing him for his creative and innovative classroom teaching. The award was established in honor of Sterling College’s fourth president, William M. McCreery, and has been awarded to one outstanding faculty member each year since 1977.

Over his five years of service to Sterling College, students have commented that Swartz is “a fantastic professor,” “very engaging,” and “thoughtful.” He brings professionals from the field of art and design into the classroom through Skype conversations and in-person visits to give students exposure to what is currently happening in the industry and to help them understand the next steps after graduation. Swartz also uses his freelance experience to show his students process work and advice in working with clients.

Swartz’s colleagues describe him as having “a strong ability to lead, which is exemplary.” He is known for pushing his students to excel, combining “theory with practice in a way where students will be able to support themselves using their God-given talents.” He “articulates clearly and persuasively what it takes for talent and effort to translate into sustainable work.”  

“Daniel has been recognized many times of modeling a Christ-like servant heart, which focuses on all the right things in a true liberal arts experience. He does not tout his own accomplishments, although they are many, and he often generously gives of himself as a follower of Jesus,” said Dr. Ken Brown, vice president for academic affairs.

In addition to teaching at Sterling College since 2011, Swartz is the chair for the Department of Art and Design. He holds an M.F.A. in Illustration from the University of Hartford, an M.A. in Visual Arts Studio with an emphasis in oil painting from Ball State University, and a B.S. in Illustration from Indiana Wesleyan University.

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.