It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of former SLIS Director, Dr. Robert Swisher. Dr. Swisher served as the Director from 1988 – 1993. Swisher, a faculty member since 1979, was appointed Acting Director of SLIS in 1988 and became Director of the School in 1989. He focused on increasing the number of full-time faculty positions, increasing and stabilizing funding, and strengthening the Tulsa component of the master's program. The program was evaluated under the 1972 American Library Association Standards for Accreditation in Fall 1992 and was re-accredited in January 1993.
Bob was an active professional, a role model for many, and visionary for the profession. He served as president of Oklahoma Library Association in 1994 and 1995. As president, he concentrated on networking and connections, encouraging web-based services for Oklahomans. Along with supporting the development of state standards for libraries, his OLA leadership included bringing the office online. Bob received OLA’s Meritorious Service Award and its Distinguished Service Award. In 2007 the Oklahoma Library Association honored him as one of the Oklahoma Library Legends.
The Oklahoma Library Association has shared this special announcement about Dr. Swisher’s passing.
"I was very saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Robert Swisher. It was my good fortune to follow Bob as Director of the OU School of Library and Information Studies and to serve on faculty with him from 1993 until his retirement in 2004. In all that he did, Bob brought a boundless enthusiasm for and unswerving dedication to his students and to the libraries and librarians of Oklahoma. He helped to push the boundaries of delivery possibilities for the School and to expand opportunities for those who wished to pursue their MLIS degree. OU SLIS and the libraries and librarians of Oklahoma were enriched by his many contributions. I join all of those who knew Bob in extending condolences to Claudia and all his family."
June Lester Professor Emeritus School of Library and Information Studies University of Oklahoma
“As a student earning my MLIS degree while Dr. Swisher was Director, I remember him being very supportive of students and always being willing to listen. As a small-town girl at a great big University, Dr. Swisher was a friendly smile and encourager whenever I needed it. For that, I will always be grateful." Buffy Edwards, 1989 OU SLIS Graduate
The SLIS family sends our condolences to Dr. Swisher’s family and loved ones. In order to honor his legacy, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be given to the Oklahoma Library Association Endowment, "Help Us Tell Our Story."
