Swansons' Love for Science Lives On

Richard Swanson dedicated a big part of his life to teaching and science. He was a high school science teacher for several decades, won numerous awards for teaching and his involvement in the field, helped start the North Dakota State Science Olympiad, and was instrumental in spearheading the Minnesota State University Moorhead Regional Science Center.

He and his wife Bonnie wanted to make a lasting impact, so they decided to make a life estate gift of their lake property to the MSUM Foundation. This property became an extension of the Regional Science Center and has been used in the teaching of sciences to all ages.

“He wanted an area where students could study fresh water lakes,” Bonnie said. “We decided MSUM would be a good place to give.”

Though Richard passed away in 2020, his legacy and love for science education will live on for generations. Bonnie encourages people to think outside the box when deciding where and what to give. Think about what’s important to you and what may be helpful now and in the future.

“Keep in mind that schools and colleges can always use the extra money or property to expand the horizons of young people coming in.”

If you would like more information on the many ways to give to the MSUM Foundation, please contact Mark Hensrud at 218.477.4226 or mark.hensrud@mnstate.edu.