M. Michael Swindle

2010 Outstanding Alumni

Dr. M. Michael Swindle, '69

Dr. M. Michael Swindle, '69, is currently the Director of the Division of Laboratory Animal Resources and Professor and Chairman in the Department of Comparative Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina. He is a Diplomate of both the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ACLAM) and the European College of Laboratory Animal Medicine (ECLAM).

In a research career that has spanned 30 years, Dr. Swindle is recognized internationally as one of the preeminent authorities for the use of swine as a human surgical model. He consults globally with medical universities on swine surgical procedures, and on the construction and operation of surgical facilities for research institutions.

He is active in many professional associations including: the American College of Laboratory Animal Medicine, the American Association for the Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care, the Academy of Surgical Research and the European College of Laboratory Animal Medicine. Professional awards he has won include: the Smithy Research Award, the Von Recum Award, the Markowitz Award for Experimental Surgery, the Brewer Scientific Achievement Award, the American Society of Laboratory Animal Practitioners Research Award and the Comparative Medicine Scientist Award. He has been primary or co-investigator on millions of dollars in grant funding and has published over 300 research abstracts, journal articles, books and book chapters.

Rotary International, the Knights of Columbus and the American Heart Association have also recognized Dr. Swindle for his outstanding commitment to community service.

He and his wife, Paula, have two daughters, Katelyn and Ashley. Dr. Swindle has been a wine maker since the 1970s, winning numerous awards and is a commercial wine judge, certified by the American Wine Society. His other interests include hiking and observing wildlife in mountains and forests. The Swindle's are planning to move to the mountains in North Carolina for retirement so that they can be closer to nature.