Where were you born and raised?

Born in Greenville, NC, raised in Houston, TX. Don’t talk to me about this heat, North Carolinians got it easy!

Where did you go to school?

Asbury University in the tiny town of Wilmore, KY                                    

Who is in your family?

Linda, my beautiful and talented Wife. Ollie, our dog, who our friends call our “practice” kid.

Any pets?

Ollie, our young Golden Retriever Mix. Loves to lie around the Apartment, or go buck wild at Oakwood Dog Park.

What is most important about your work at Edenton Street? What drives you? What is your passion?

Listening to, and, loving on students, parents, and coworkers. A passion to serve—being more like Jesus. Serving and loving those around me.

What two people have most influenced you?

My Wife, who teaches me every day what it means to serve the LORD.

Dr. Linda Stratford. Professor from college who specializes in Art History and changing student’s lives!

What are your favorite books, movies or songs?

I love many of these things, here are a few:

Authors- David Sedaris, Annie Dillard, Donald Miller, J.D. Salinger, Dave Eggers, Wendell Berry

Directors- David Fincher, Christopher Nolan, Judd Apatow, Sophia Coppolla

Actors- Leonardo DiCaprio, Bill Murray, Heath Ledger, Jack Nicholson, Meryll Streep

Bands- Mumford & Sons, Band of Horses, LCD Soundsystem, any Dubstep, Deer Hunter, the XX, Panda Bear, Bon Iver to name a few…

How do you like to spend your free time?

Reading, Dogpark-ing, Eating at any of the splendid dining establishments of Raleigh. Watching Modern Family or House. Having dinner with you at my house!

If you weren’t working at Edenton Street, what would your profession be?

Baker, dessert or otherwise- despite the early morning risings (no pun intended), I think it’d be one of the most rewarding experiences out there. I mean come on, is there any food better than bread!

What’s your favorite food?

Well, I guess I have to say bread now. Also, as simple as it sounds, really good pizza.

What do you order when you go to Starbucks?

As a former “partner,” I guess I’ll be honest. Short Americano, if I’m forced to go into Starbucks. They’re not too good at anything else. Oops, did I just say that.

What did your parents call you when you were in trouble?

Wesley Edward Swan—full name—which coincidentally can become an acronym for my nick-name…WES.