SRU mourns the loss of Samantha Swift

Samantha Swift, Slippery Rock University’s interim vice president of advancement, passed away Dec. 31.

Jan. 3, 2024

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – Samantha Swift, Slippery Rock University’s interim vice president of advancement, passed away Dec. 31. A native of Butler, Swift worked at SRU since 2011, including nine years as director of development and two years as executive director of development and advancement services before being named interim VP of advancement in September 2022.

The following is a message from SRU President Karen Riley about Swift’s passing:

“We are all stunned and saddened by the sudden passing of our dear friend and colleague Samantha Swift, who passed away at home on Dec. 31, following an unexpected medical event. Professionally, she was a valued member of the University’s leadership team – a talented tactician with a gift for building relationships and for inspiring those around her. She was fiercely competitive, and her work ethic had the University on pace to exceed all fundraising goals for the year. Although numbers and goals were important to Samantha, she will be remembered for how much she gave to her community and as a person who cared deeply for others. When you were with her, she made you feel special, which is a rare gift. She touched the lives of so many people through her work, her passionate leadership and service to the SRU and Butler County communities and beyond. We will miss her.”

Viewing hours will be 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., Friday, Jan. 5, at Martin Funeral Home, 429 Center Avenue, Butler, PA. A Blessing Service is set for 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 6, at All Saints Parish St. Paul Church, 128 N. McKean Street, Butler, PA.

The obituary is online. Video of the Blessing Service will be streamed online at hvproductions.net/live.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations, which can be made online or sent to SRU Foundation, Inc., 104 Maltby Ave., Suite 202, Slippery Rock, PA, 16057. 

MEDIA CONTACT: Justin Zackal | 724.738.4854 |justin.zackal@sru.edu