Alumni of the Year Award
Mary Bruggeman Swift, Dent Hy ’83, and Christopher J. Swift, Bus Ad ’83
Through his words and his actions throughout his career, Chris urges business leaders to set an example with authenticity and empathy. As chairman and CEO of The Hartford©, Chris oversees an organization of more than 19,000 teammates, driving innovation and transformation while ensuring customers remain at the center of everything the company does. Under his leadership, The Hartford© has also been at the forefront of the U.S. business community to create stigma-free workplaces, provide mental health support to those in need, and help millions of Americans enjoy healthier lives.
“The Hartford is passionate about making sure we are building a stigma-free culture,” says Chris. “We know from our business that there is a connection between health, productivity and performance. When you feel supported, you bring your best self to work and perform at the highest levels.”
Beyond his role at The Hartford©, Chris is deeply engaged in community revitalization and healthcare transformation. He is a founding member of The Hartford Vision Committee, a coalition of CEOs working to develop a 20-year plan for the city’s renewal. He also serves on the board of Hartford HealthCare, focusing on affordability, access, and equity in healthcare. His leadership extends to philanthropy, supporting initiatives that promote mentorship through organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hartford.
Chris and Mary met and began dating at Marquette, and this is where Chris developed the core values that shaped his leadership. “My Marquette experience contributed to me being a lifelong learner and critical thinker. I always recommend people leave themselves open to new opportunities, challenges and experiences — raise your hand and declare your aspirations,” Chris says.
Their philanthropic contributions to Marquette reflect this mission. Chris and Mary supported the development of the LOVELLSTRONG Center for Student Well-Being at the Wellness + Helfaer Recreation Center on campus, advancing resources that empower students to prioritize their mental and physical health. In addition, they were among the leaders in the university’s drive to launch a new Business School facility — Dr. E. J. and Margaret O’Brien Hall. The Swifts are also passionate supporters of Marquette Athletics, especially the golf program, where their son, CJ, Bus Ad ’16, played as a student-athlete.
Mary has been the foundation of their family, raising the couple’s four children with unwavering faith and love. A devout Catholic who attends Mass daily, Mary brings quiet strength and purpose to the couple’s shared mission of giving back. Her commitment to faith and family anchors their work and inspires those around her.
Together, Chris and Mary remain deeply committed to mentorship, philanthropy, and fostering opportunities for future generations. Chris believes in the power of respect and service. “It’s about devoting your actions to others, lifting up and supporting those in need,” he says. “With our faith being an integral part of our lives, we feel accountable to the highest standards.”
That outlook is what led them to support Marquette’s recently announced Michael R. Lovell Presidential Scholarship program, which will provide full-ride scholarships for students across the nation who are grounded in humility and demonstrate Marquette values.
Looking ahead, the Swifts continue to champion causes that align with their values. One initiative close to their hearts is “Send Silence Packing,” a traveling educational exhibit developed by Active Minds, a leading U.S. mental health nonprofit, and sponsored by The Hartford. Raising awareness about mental health on campuses and communities across the country, the exhibit is slated to visit Marquette in the coming years. This initiative, like so much of the Swifts’ work, reflects their commitment to helping others lead healthier, fuller lives, free from stigma and without barriers to the support they need to thrive.
“When you get involved and give, you help the next generation learn and grow,” says Chris. “I hope to inspire other alumni to make a difference.”
Fun Facts:
The Swifts’ Marquette legacy is strong. Chris' sister, Nancy Swift-Kornfeld, graduated from the College of Nursing in 1985, and her husband, James, received a Business Administration degree in 1986. Chris and Mary have four grown children including, CJ, Bus Ad ’16, one granddaughter and another grandchild on the way.
