Dan Swanson
From the classroom at Black Hawk College to the frontlines of military service and state leadership, Dan Swanson’s dedication has made a lasting impact. His story highlights a lifelong commitment to service—on the farm, in the military, and as an advocate for education and veterans alike.
Serving Country, Community and Campus
Dan Swanson graduated from Alwood High School in Woodhull, Illinois, and continued his education at Black Hawk College, earning his associate degree in 1984. He later earned his bachelor's degree at Western Illinois University in 1994.
Dan enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard in 1977 as a generator and wheel vehicle mechanic. Selected for an active-duty tour in 1980, he attended Officer Candidate School at the Illinois Military Academy and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in 1986. After more than 20 years of active duty and three years as a traditional Guardsman, he retired in 2001.
A Distinguished Military Career
Dan was first recalled to active duty in 2007, after seeing the soldiers he trained go to war. He served with the Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq as deputy director of the Iraqi Army Force Generation, coordinating and synchronizing recruitment, training, and equipping of Iraqi Army units with Coalition and Iraqi leadership. Dan completed his tour in 2008, earned the Bronze Star and Combat Action Badge, and returned to retirement.
He was recalled again in 2010 to serve with the Army Sustainment Command at the Rock Island Arsenal. As Chief of Logistics Synchronization and Integration Cell for the Lead Material Integrator Mission, he led a team that transitioned the mission to equip the Army from the Pentagon to the Army Sustainment Command, resulting in cost savings and jobs. He retired again in 2013.
Dan served as superintendent of the Henry County Veterans Assistance Commission, providing financial aid and transportation services to the Iowa Veterans Hospital in Iowa City, and helping veterans pay utilities, rent, and purchase food.
Community Roots and Lasting Impact
Dan was sworn in as Illinois State Representative for the 74th District in 2017. He served more than 17 years on the Alwood (Alpha and Woodhull) Board of Education and two years on the Henry County Board, though he resigned when recalled to active duty.
A sixth-generation farmer, Dan remains deeply involved with the Swanson family farm near Andover, Illinois, working alongside his dad, Ron; brother, Steve; son, Matthew; and nephew, Josh.
Today, Dan continues to champion Black Hawk College at the state level, helping the college move forward for future generations. Please join us in congratulating Dan Swanson as the 2023 Outstanding Ag Alumni.