Renae Swanson, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, serves as USC Upstate’s dean of the College of Education, Human Performance, and Health. Swanson joined the university July 1, 2025 from the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, where she served as interim dean of the College of Education and Human Services.
With a distinguished career spanning more than 17 years in higher education, she has demonstrated a commitment to student success, faculty development, and community engagement. Swanson earned a Ph.D. in counseling and psychology in education from the University of South Dakota and has served in various academic leadership roles, including associate dean, department chair, and graduate program coordinator.
She has played a pivotal role in accreditation processes, curriculum development, and securing external funding for program initiatives. In addition, her background as a licensed professional counselor and clinical director provides her with a unique perspective on integrating mental health and wellness within educational and community health programs.