Gladys "Swanny" Swanson was the College's physical education director from 1931 to 1969. She is described by former students and coworkers as "strong," "commanding" and "a spit-fire." In a 1940 edition of the College newspaper the Scriptorium she said: "Education fosters high character in future citizens; physical education aspires likewise to such achievement." Her vision led to the establishment of a physical education major in 1953. She was an early inspiration for women's collegiate athletics on campus and paved the way for equal opportunity for female athletes long before Title IX. She is the namesake of the Swanny run/walk held in conjunction with Homecoming.