Dr. Derek Swain, who has a Masters of Physical Education from UBC, once again illustrates the degree of career diversity those from this field of study can experience.
While a student on campus Derek developed his loyalty to UBC and to Athletics by serving as a co-manager of Thunderbird basketball teams which included the 1969/70 and the 1971/72 teams both inducted into the UBC Sports Hall of Fame. Active on campus, Derek was elected AMS Vice-President and student Senator while being inspired and mentored by the likes of Bob Osborne, Bob Hindmarch, Buzz Moore and Reid Mitchell.
Prior to attaining his MPE in 1977 Derek taught Physical Education in Port Coquitlam and in Australia later becoming Athletic Director at BCIT. It was however his interest in human learning and performance which had emerged through his experiences in physical education and athletics that led him to pursue a doctorate in Counselling Psychology at UBC, which he successfully completed in 1990.
During his career as an Instructor, Counsellor and Registered Psychologist, Derek has authored or contributed to many publications, conducted countless public and media presentations and served on boards of the Regulatory College of Psychologists of BC and the BC Psychological Association.
Throughout however, Derek has remained passionate regarding the Blue & Gold and continues to support and take a strong stand for UBC.
Written by Fred Hume, UBC Historian
