Adam Swinyard, superintendent of Spokane Public Schools, credits his career in education for allowing him to live out his commitment to public service by creating opportunities, building relationships, and making a positive impact for others. At SPS, Swinyard strives to lead with integrity by developing trust, consistency, and transparency, he says.

Along with Director of Spokane Parks & Recreation Garrett Jones, Swinyard played an instrumental role advocating for the Together Spokane initiative, which is set to improve over 200 schools and parks projects in the city.

Education: Bachelor's degree in secondary education, Northwest University; master's degree in education, doctorate degree in education in executive leadership, Seattle Pacific University.

What would you tell others looking to follow a similar career path to yours? Make a commitment to getting better every day. For me, growth has come from being intentional about learning — sometimes through formal opportunities, but just as often through informal experiences.

What was your first job and what did you learn from it? My first job was working as a lifeguard at the Deer Park City Pool. I learned that I genuinely loved working with youth and being in environments where I could support, guide, and look out for others.

What career or job would you want to have if you weren't in your current role? I truly love my current role, but if I weren't in it, I would want to return to working daily in a classroom.