This is one of many spotlights about Badin graduates and their successes in life.
Daniel Swormstedt ’06 holds a BA in Political Science from Miami University, Oxford, OH and a MS in Human Environmental Sciences from the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL. He opened the new Court Street Lobster Bar in Over the Rhine, Cincinnati in the Spring of 2017 and is enjoying the life of an entrepreneur!
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Alumni Spotlight on: DANIEL SWORMSTEDT '06
What led you to your career/business? There were a lot of twists and turns along the way and I had the pleasure of working for a lot of amazing organizations and companies. However, little did I know that the server job I picked up at Miami University for some side cash, would ultimately determine my career trajectory. I loved interacting with people and making their day brighter through the power of food and hospitality. When I decided to take a leap and work for myself, I thought back to the job I enjoyed the most. Two years of planning and 9 months in operation, I couldn't be happier.
What is your favorite quote? "Don't lower your expectations to meet your performance. Raise your level of performance to meet your expectations. Expect the best of yourself, and then do what is necessary to make it a reality." -Ralph Marston
What is your best advice for current Badin students? Don't think you have to have everything figured out! You are young and have plenty of adventure ahead! I have had everything "figured out" multiple times, which has led to amazing opportunities working in professional sports, a Fortune 500 company, and now working for myself. Life will take you on the path that is meant to be. Some people's paths are straight, while other people's are met with multiple forks in the road. Just work hard and put your heart into your passion(s), success will follow.
What is your best memory as a Badin student? Easy, Junior year Spirit Week. We beat the class of 2005 to take the crown after what could only be described as a tense week in the hallways between the two classes. (There may have also been a point when Mr. P called me and a few others out of class to wash ALL of the windows that were so *rudely* drawn on with window paint.)
If you could have lunch with anyone living or dead, who would it be? Danny Meyer, Restauranteur and Author - One, because we would hopefully be eating at one of his group’s amazing restaurants! Two, he has succeeded in the industry that I am breaking into. He has succeeded in creating a variety of concepts that have blown patrons away: from Eleven Madison Park, the top ranked restaurant in the world and the epitome of a fine dining experience, to the uber successful Shake Shack franchise. He is also one of the leaders on providing restaurant employees a living wage and abolishing the tip culture that persists in American restaurants today.
Are YOU our next Spotlight Alumni? Do you know someone that should be? Nomination form is HERE!
