Sandra Swan, the former president of Episcopal Relief and Development, was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters by Berkeley Divinity School at Yale University at its annual convocation on October 12.

During the ceremony, Swan was praised for her energetic and visionary leadership as President of Episcopal Relief and Development, transforming it into an “efficient and effective global aid organization.”  The citation also highlighted Swan’s efforts stating, “ERD’s record and reputation for providing emergency disaster relief and international humanitarian assistance is recognized as a model worldwide.”

The degree citation noted Swan previous accomplishments, leading organizations in publishing, the performing arts, education, and community affairs.  It particularly called attention to her “intellectual curiosity, her core belief in social justice and …exceptional organizational talent” that has enabled her to be a “tireless advocate for bettering the lives of all people everywhere.”

Robert W. Radtke, ERD President, said, “Sandra’s service and dedication to ERD helped the organization reach out to more communities around the world and help people suffering. I’ve been humbled to build on her many accomplishments.”

In her acceptance remarks, Swan challenged listeners to combat the unceasing famine, disease, poverty and illiteracy that cripple the lives of millions around the world.  In a nation of plenty, she urged, we must remember that throughout the developing world, “little boys die from measles, or mothers die in childbirth, or young girls can’t go to school because they have to fetch water for the family.”

Swan served as president of ERD from 1999 to 2005. During her tenure, Swan guided ERD in a major reorganization and in responding to crises including the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami that prompted more than $12 million in contributions to ERD and Hurricane Mitch in 1998 which led to a major reconstruction program in San Pedro Sula, Honduras.