Learn About Debbie Swenson
Background
Debbie (Johnson) Swenson grew up in the small town of Brigham City, Utah. Her father was a school teacher (and a milk-man, grocery clerk, cherry picker or whatever else he could find to supplement his income). From a young age Debbie took an interest in politics and with the political climate of the 60's and early 70's she wasn't alone. Her grandfather (who was her favorite baby sitter) was a veteran of WWI and her father served in the navy in the Pacific fleet during WWII. He was a flag man for his ship and was in the first wave that landed on Iwo Jima. While not a combat marine, he spent 5 days pinned down on blue beach. Needless to say Debbie was raised with a great love of country and an appreciation for those who sacrifice for it. At a very young age, her father took her to political caucuses and taught her the importance of being involved.
After graduation from high school, Debbie continued her education at BYU where she met and married Kenneth Swenson of Springville. They moved into an old apartment above the office of Swenson Metal in Spanish Fork as they learned firsthand the challenges and joys of running a small business. As the business grew (along with their family), they were able to buy a home in Salem where they have resided for the past 32 years. Together they have raised six children, all of whom have served missions for the LDS church. They are all married, except for their youngest who is attending BYU. Debbie believes that the best kept secret in life is the joy of grandchildren and she loves to spend time with her seven (soon to be eleven) grandchildren. In 2003 Ken and Debbie were honored to be selected as the Salem Family of the Year.
The journey of raising six children led Debbie into unexpected paths that have served to broaden her horizons. She found herself coaching youth softball and soccer, even volunteering as the coordinator of the Salem Girls Softball league. With children being involved in softball, cheer, football, baseball, soccer, tennis, track, hockey (yes, she IS a hockey mom), choir and band, she has spent her share of time on the sidelines cheering. Like many mothers, Debbie became actively involved in her children's education serving in various capacities with the PTA and on school advisory councils. As the Spanish Fork Area PTA president, she had numerous opportunities to serve on school district committees such as the Nebo Education Foundation, the Healthy Lifestyles committee and the Career Ladder committee. One of the most cherished experiences for her was being recognized by the Spanish Fork High School's National Honor Society as "1994 Volunteer of the Year."
After a particularly difficult time in her life, Debbie's desire to serve in a more meaningful way led her to the United Way, where she was trained and worked as a "Welcome Baby" volunteer in south Utah County. While helping new mothers learn mothering skills, she learned about needs in the community that exist all around her. She has also served on the board of directors for "Kids Cause" -- an organization that provides for the physical needs of children in Utah County. She has realized that we don't have to look across an ocean to find people who are hungry or living in poverty, because they live among us.
In 2001, Debbie returned to BYU to finish her bachelor degree in Marriage, Family and Human Development. Her studies and associations during that time instilled in her a passion for strengthening families as a solution to so many of today's problems. She also developed a belief that helping to create stronger families is what all community service should be about. After graduation in 2002, Debbie was challenged by one of her professors to use her degree to strengthen families in the community. This challenge motivated her to run for the Nebo District Board of Education where she has been serving for the past 6 years.
Debbie has served in many capacities in her LDS ward and stake. She is currently teaching the gospel doctrine Sunday School class. When time permits she loves researching her ancestors, reading, sewing and traveling to visit their children and grandchildren who are living coast to coast.
Last updated by admin on 9/9/2008