One of this year’s new faculty, Mr. Patrick Swanson joined Mount Carmel last August as the computer science, biology and code gaming instructor. He also coaches freshman football.

Swanson attended Marian Catholic for high school where he played baseball and football. He earned his college degree at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where he competed in football.

While he isn’t an alum himself, he has a previous connection to Mount Carmel as his godfather, Mark Bajenski, was part of the class of 1979.

Swanson met current Mount Carmel varsity football coach Jordan Lynch while both were coaching football at the Northern Illinois University. Swanson later coached at the University of North Dakota

He has recently moved from DeKalb to downtown Chicago, although his family is originally from Mokena.

Even though football was delayed this year due to COVID-19, he looks forward to the new season “because he enjoys coaching.” Additionally, he has a passion for golf, working out and spending time with his dog.