About Rhett Swarb
As Senior Program Specialist, Rhett serves as the executive assistant to the Peter O’Donnell Jr. Director. Rhett previously worked at SMU for nearly four years as a Project Specialist in the Office of the Senior Vice President for Development and External Affairs. He provided key support for Board of Trustees and committee meetings, coordinating logistics, communication, and compiling meeting materials from multiple divisions. Rhett prepared complex campaign presentations and documents using highly confidential fundraising information. Prior to his start at SMU, Rhett worked at the University of Texas at Arlington for over five years as the Operations Supervisor and Special Programs Coordinator for University Center Operations. He assisted in planning events and meetings in various areas around campus, serving as an on-site liaison for high-profile events. Rhett hired, supervised, and trained scores of student staff. He received multiple service awards from departments and organizations including Student Affairs and Staff Advisory Council. Prior to his career in higher education, Rhett honed his skills in the guest service industry, specializing in training, improving satisfaction and sales metrics, and management.
Rhett holds a bachelor’s degree in Broadcasting from the University of Texas at Arlington. As a student, he was involved with the International Student Organization, Student Congress, Homecoming Court, and many on-campus activities.