Former NCAA Vice President And OU President David Swank, 93, Dies, Leaving Behind His Wife Ann And Two Kids

David Swank, a towering figure in Oklahoma’s legal education and collegiate athletics with a career that spanned over five decades, has died at the age of 93.

Swank passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, at his family farm south of Stillwater, surrounded by loved ones.

Swank’s legacy stretches far beyond the classrooms of the University of Oklahoma, where he served as a law professor for 55 years, law school dean, and interim university president.

He became a household name in Oklahoma for his pivotal role in some of the university’s most high-profile and controversial moments.

David Swank’s Journey Began From The Military And Moved To The Courtroom

Born in Guthrie, Oklahoma, and raised in Stillwater, David Swank earned his undergraduate degree from Oklahoma State University in 1953, where he was the top-rated ROTC cadet and a member of the rifle team.

He went on to serve in the U.S. Army’s 11th and 101st Airborne Divisions and Special Forces, experiences that forged the discipline and grit that would define his career.

A year later, he shifted to academia, accepting a position as assistant professor at OU. This role launched one of the most distinguished careers in Oklahoma’s legal education history.

David Swank Found His Calling In The University of Oklahoma

Swank was a foundational figure at the OU College of Law.

He established its first legal aid clinics, wrote the Oklahoma Discovery Code, and served as the principal drafter of the Oklahoma Code of Judicial Conduct.

Named a David Ross Boyd Professor of Law, he was inducted into the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame in 2011 and twice received the Oklahoma Bar Association’s President Award for outstanding service.

From 1988 to 1989, Swank served as interim president of the University of Oklahoma during a time of turmoil within the university’s football program.

The Sooners were embroiled in scandals involving high-profile players, and the national spotlight turned intense.

Just six days after a private meeting with Swank, legendary coach Barry Switzer resigned, sparking backlash from fans and claims from Switzer that Swank sought credit for his departure.

Swank stood by his actions, stating,

“One thing, I’ve always played by the rules. I think that’s very important.”

David Swank Was Part Of The NCAA Leadership And Athletics Oversight

Swank’s influence extended far beyond the courtroom.

He served as OU’s faculty representative to the Big Eight Conference and the NCAA from 1965 to 1976.

Swank officially retired from OU in 2018, but his impact remained deeply ingrained in the university.

David Swank Was A Beloved Husband And Father

David Swank is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ann; their children, David Swank II and Ami Swank; daughter-in-law, Kris Swank; and grandchildren, Katie Swank and David Swank III.

Although his titles were numerous, including lawyer, professor, dean, president, soldier, and mentor, David Swank is remembered most as a man of integrity.

He lived his values, led by example, and left a legacy that touched education, law, athletics, and public service across Oklahoma and beyond.

Rest in peace, David Swank!