Kathy Swan receives Spirit of America Award at Cape Girardeau's Great American Fourth of July Celebration

Kathy Swan of Cape Girardeau speaks Thursday, July 4, after accepting the 2024 Southeast Missourian Spirit of America Award at the city's Great American Fourth of July Celebration at Arena Park.

Rick Fahr ~ rfahr@semissourian.com

For her decades of service as an elected and appointed official at the local, district and state level, as well as voluminous volunteer efforts, Kathy Swan of Cape Girardeau received the Southeast Missourian's Spirit of America Award on Thursday, July 4.

She accepted the award at the city's Great American Fourth of July Celebration at Arena Park.

Recalling the nation's founding, she spoke of the ideals and leadership grounded in character, honesty and integrity. Pivoting to today, she said the American dream is alive and well, as is volunteerism and patriotism.

Southeast Missourian general manager Lucas Presson presents the 2024 Spirit of America Award to Kathy Swan at Cape Girardeau's Great American Fourth of July Celebration on Thursday, July 4, at Arena Park.

Rick Fahr ~ rfahr@semissourian.com

She said the nation's strength lies in the unity of its citizenry. Pointing to public service announcements released in the aftermath of the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, she noted the faces and ethnicities and dialects of those highlighted reflected the melting pot America has been since its birth.

"The fate of each one of us is tied to the fate of us all," she said. "We are immeasurably blessed to be American, whether by birth or naturalization. ... We cannot be passive spectators. We must work as active citizens in our community, our state and in our nation."

Swan has served in elected office as member of the Cape Girardeau Public Schools Board of Education, Cape Girardeau City Council and state representative for District 147. She served for many years on the state's Coordinating Board for Higher Education and is a member of the state Labor and Industrial Relations Commission. She has served in various capacities with Southeast Missouri State University, Saint Francis Healthcare System and United Way of Southeast Missouri. She has also served as a nurse and nursing instructor.

Kayla Tidwell sings the national anthem Thursday, July 4, at Cape Girardeau's Great American Fourth of July Celebration at Arena Park. With Tidwell is Southeast Missourian general manager Lucas Presson.

Rick Fahr ~ rfahr@semissourian.com

Lucas Pressson, Southeast Missourian general manager, said Swan's humility is a hallmark of her character.

"Maybe the most compelling reason why Kathy is deserving of this recognition is her humility through service. About a week ago, I called Kathy to let her know she would be recognized with the Spirit of America Award. While she was flattered and appreciative, one of the first things she said to me was, 'Why me?' Which is exactly why she is deserving," he said. "For Kathy, recognition isn’t expected. It’s simply about doing what’s right, whether it’s serving in a public capacity or privately helping others."

Mayor Stacy Kinder spoke briefly of the inspiring nature of the holiday and the award itself.

Neil Casey, left, directs Cape Municipal Band as they play patriotic songs at Cape Girardeau's Great American Fourth of July Celebration on Thursday, July 4, at Arena Park.

Rick Fahr ~ rfahr@semissourian.com

"What is also inspiring is tonight's Spirit of America Award and knowing year after year we have someone so worthy of the appreciation of the community," she noted. "To Kathy Swan, thank you for your passion and heart for service. We have all been true beneficiaries of your lifetime of service."

The annual municipal event also included a performance by Cape Municipal Band and a fireworks show.

Don Presson sings "God Bless America" at Cape Girardeau's Great American Fourth of July Celebration on Thursday, July 4, at Arena Park.

Rick Fahr ~ rfahr@semissourian.com

Cape Girardeau Mayor Stacy Kinder speaks during the city's Great American Fourth of July Celebration on Thursday, July 4, at Arena Park.

Rick Fahr ~ rfahr@semissourian.com