New Development Coordinator Named for Physics & Astronomy Department

Mentors at the U

Throughout his academic career, Webb has benefited from the help of faculty advisors in the Department of Physics & Astronomy, including Assistant Professor Dmytro Pesin and Professor Oleg Starykh.

“They have been excellent teachers and mentors, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without their help and guidance,” said Webb.

In looking back on his academic journey, Webb has some practical advice for undergrads who want to pursue physics. “If you’re really interested in learning physics, and not just getting a degree, then you need to understand the math; however, don’t take just the math courses for scientists and engineers because they won’t give you the depth of understanding that physics demands. I also would recommend doing the physics pre-professional degree, even if you’re not sure you plan to go to grad school. It sounds like a lot of hard work, and it is. But if you’re here for the right reasons, it’s fun and worth the effort,” he said.

After graduation in May, Webb plans to attend graduate school to obtain a Ph.D. in physics.

Michele Swaner joined the University of Utah in October and is responsible for conducting communications, development, and fundraising activities for the Department of Mathematics and the Department of Physics & Astronomy.

Swaner is skilled in all areas of communications, including philanthropy and fundraising, public relations, marketing, advertising, media relations and social media, community relations, and public outreach.

A native of Salt Lake City, she began her career at Manufacturers Hanover Bank in New York City and spent a number of years working in New York and Greenwich, Conn. She joined R&R Partners in Utah, where her work was awarded a Silver Anvil from the Public Relations Society of America for a voter initiative for the Utah Transit Authority. She worked for a decade for Williams Northwest Pipeline in public outreach and community giving activities.

Swaner has a bachelor’s degree in theater from Whitman College and a master’s degree in communications from Westminster College. She is accredited in public relations and was inducted into PRSA’s College of Fellows in 2012 for her career accomplishments. Michele Swaner