Aleksandar Švager

Prof. Aleksandar Švager – A Life of Resilience, Science, and Philanthropy

Early Life and Survival During WWII

Aleksandar Švager was born in 1931 in Sarajevo, into a Jewish family. His father was a doctor, and Aleksandar’s early years were marked by a love for learning. However, his childhood took a drastic turn with the outbreak of World War II. In 1941, as Nazi forces occupied Yugoslavia, his family managed to escape just hours before they were to be transported to Auschwitz. Instead, they were sent to a prisoner-of-war camp in Italy, where they endured years of hardship before finally being liberated. This experience profoundly shaped his worldview and instilled in him a deep appreciation for education and perseverance.

Academic Journey and Career in Physics

After the war, Švager returned to Yugoslavia, completed high school, and pursued higher education in physics. He began his studies at the Nuclear Institute in Zagreb, where he earned his undergraduate degree and continued with postgraduate studies. His academic excellence earned him a scholarship from the University of Sarajevo, allowing him to teach while completing his advanced studies.

In 1960, driven by his passion for knowledge, he moved to the United States, where he earned a Master’s degree in physics from Texas Christian University. Soon after, he joined Central State University (CSU) in Ohio, where he dedicated over three decades to teaching physics, mentoring students, and shaping the university’s curriculum. He retired in 1996 but left an indelible mark on the institution.

Švager played a pivotal role in the development of CSU’s physics department and was instrumental in establishing the university’s first computer science department, recognizing early on the transformative power of computing in science and education.

Philanthropy and Commitment to Education

Beyond his contributions to physics, Švager was deeply committed to supporting underrepresented students in STEM fields. Together with his late wife, Thyrsa Frazier Švager, he founded scholarship funds aimed at helping African American women pursue degrees in mathematics and physics. Their philanthropic efforts changed the lives of many students, and the scholarship fund they established continues to support aspiring scientists today.

Legacy and Impact

Švager’s impact extended far beyond the classroom. He was a visionary educator, a passionate advocate for equal access to education, and a generous philanthropist. His contributions to physics education, curriculum development, and student mentorship left a lasting legacy.

He passed away on October 9, 2024, leaving behind a profound influence on his students, colleagues, and the broader academic community. His life story—from a Holocaust survivor to a distinguished professor and philanthropist—serves as a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the transformative power of education.