Johnston native named to JMU post

HARRISONBURG, Va. — A Johnston County native is the new dean of the School of Professional and Continuing Education at James Madison University.

Nick Swartz, who grew up in Selma, had served as the interim dean of the SPCE for the past two years. In his new role, he will oversee the school, which encompasses the Adult Degree Program, Lifelong Learning Institute, Youth Programs and Professional Development.

Swartz joined JMU in 2008 as an assistant professor of public policy and administration in the political science department. He later served as the director of the master’s degree program in public administration and as associate vice provost for research and scholarship. He founded the Madison Center for Community Development and served as its director until 2022.

Swartz became an associate dean in the SPCE in 2017, when it was known as Outreach and Engagement. He has played roles in many local, regional, state and national initiatives and led a university working group that helped establish the new Office of Youth Safety.

Heather Coltman is JMU’s provost. “This appointment recognizes Nick’s significant contributions to JMU’s professional and continuing education initiatives, as well as the strength of the existing leadership team in SPCE,” she said. “His experience and knowledge will add significant value as SPCE continues to expand opportunities for individuals and the community through education, programming and experiences for all ages.”

Swartz expressed his gratitude and excitement for the new role. “I am deeply honored to be named dean of the School of Professional and Continuing Education,” he said. “Serving as interim dean over the past two years has allowed me to witness firsthand the incredible impact our programs have on individuals and the community.

“SPCE plays a vital role in providing accessible education and professional development opportunities, driving economic growth and enhancing the quality of life in our region. I look forward to continuing our work to expand these opportunities and support lifelong learning for all.”

Swartz holds a doctorate in public policy with a concentration in urban and regional economic development from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He earned a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

The post Johnston native named to JMU post first appeared on Restoration NewsMedia .