News

The Institute and Museum of California Art (IMCA) at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) is profoundly saddened by the passing of longtime friend and donor, Madeline Martin Swinden. She was a dedicated volunteer at the museum, known for her generosity and warm hospitality that created a spirit of welcome to all visitors.

She also was extensively involved at UCI, having served as president of the School of Medicine Research Associates, and as an advisory board member of both the Susan Samueli Center for Integrative Medicine and the Department of Neurology.

Mrs. Swinden was further active as a volunteer and philanthropist at other cultural and educational organizations in Southern California. She served on the board of the Mission Preservation Foundation in San Juan Capistrano, Kidworks in Santa Ana, and the Crystal Cove Alliance in Laguna Beach. She also chaired the community outreach advisory board of the Joan Irvine Smith & Athalie R. Clarke Foundation.

A native Californian and a resident of Laguna Beach, Mrs. Swinden attended the University of Southern California. She was also a graduate of the Gemological Institute of America and had a five-decade career designing and selling fine jewelry.

Mrs. Swinden is survived by her husband, UCI Foundation Trustee James Irvine Swinden, and their son, James Irvine Swinden, Jr. She left an indelible mark on the museum, UCI, and regional community, and IMCA sends its deepest condolences to her family.