Susan Bennett
Joining the UICA Board of Directors is an incredible honor. Although many causes are worthy, very early in our married lives, my husband, Shane Swanson - a first gen student, and I decided to prioritize our then-very limited giving to Iowa because it allowed us to have something to give. My dad and uncle were first gen students who used their Iowa degrees as a foundation for their families. My uncle and aunt met at Iowa, and three of their sons have degrees from Iowa. My cousin, Scott Bennett, serves on the Investment Committee.
My dad went from sweeping the halls at Shaffer to a law degree and long career at the Maytag Corporation. Although my mom started her education at Drake, she has a Ph.D. from Iowa in Music Education. Shane and I met at Iowa early in our Freshman year as music students, as did my brother and his wife. After earning my law degree at Iowa, I have had a long career running legal departments for various companies while Shane has enjoyed a career in the insurance industry.
Nothing is more important for our world than educated, thinking citizens who can make it better. I am pleased and honored to support an institution that is dedicated to this important mission. I am hopeful to play a part in allowing Iowa do for others what it has done for my family and me.
Susan Bennett is Chief Legal Officer and Secretary, appointed in January 2025 after joining e2open in May 2024 as Interim Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary. As Chief Legal Officer and Secretary, Susan is responsible for managing the global legal affairs of the company and overseeing the legal, contracts, risk management, information security, and compliance areas of the business, as well as working with the Board of Directors.
Susan brings over 25 years of experience in global legal affairs, strategic leadership, and fostering collaborative cultures, with a record of achieving strong business performance and developing high-performing teams. Prior to joining e2open, Susan served as Chief Legal Officer for Circana (previously IRI) for nearly 10 years where she led the legal and compliance functions and founded the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusion program. Previously, Susan was Senior Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary at Culligan International after beginning her career at a small law firm.
Susan is a proud double graduate of the University of Iowa, currently serving as a Co-Chair of the Together Hawkeyes Capital Campaign, and Chair Emerita of the Alumni Leadership Council.