“A new chapter in life” for EMU’s first lady

After six interstate moves, change is nothing new to Pat Swartzendruber, wife of EMU President Loren Swartzendruber. This latest move, though, has brought a change in lifestyle along with its change in location.

Pat Swartzendruber has been employed full time for 30 years in organizational consulting. She will continue in that field here in Harrisonburg, but will be working part time to allow more time for her to get involved in the university. "It’s the best of both worlds," she says of her new arrangement, which will free her up to attend more campus activities.

She and Loren are both making an effort to be visible around campus. "We want to be invitational and open to the interests of students," says Swartzendruber. She is "eager to get to know students" and to hear about their experiences, especially about cross-cultural trips. She has promised to pray daily for the Guatemala and Middle East groups that are away this semester.

Another interest of Swartzendruber’s is EMU’s spiritual life. "The Spirit of Christ is really my lifeblood," she says. She hopes to get involved in the campus spiritual life, as well as "to promote forums for conversation…in a spirit of respect and compassion."

She will be working with Loren to form connections with EMU, the surrounding community, and Mennonite churches in the area. "It’s a team effort," she says. Their house will be used for hosting faculty and student groups and donors as a way to build relationships.

Swartzendruber says of their move from Hesston, Kansas to Harrisonburg, "It’s a new chapter in life…the timing was just right for both of us."