Tracy M. Schwab (1967–2021)
Tracy Schwab in his office at SPS National. Photo by Liz Dart Caron, AIP.
The SPS National Office is heartbroken to report that Tracy Schwab passed away unexpectedly this spring. You may not have known Tracy by name, but his artistry and expertise are woven into the SPS and ΣΠΣ website design, issues of Radiations and SPS Observer going back more than 10 years, and countless SPS brochures, posters, T-shirts, and other special projects. With his endless curiosity, passionate support of students, and quest to make the world more beautiful and inclusive, Tracy truly embodied the ideals of SPS.
Tracy worked at the American Institute of Physics and SPS National Office for 17 years. Hired in 2001 as communications coordinator and webmaster, Tracy brought SPS and ΣΠΣ into the digital age. He later took on the role of designing the societies’ printed publications, transforming them into the visually appealing resources they are today. Tracy was AIP’s inaugural director of creative services. During his time with SPS, he helped to guide the organization, inspire students, and support the mission of SPS and ΣΠΣ.
With an infectious smile and encouraging nature, Tracy was a friend, mentor, and source of support for numerous SPS leaders, staff members, and interns who passed through the National Office. Although he never formally studied physics, Tracy recognized its value and captured it in his designs and artwork. He loved volunteering at physics outreach events, pondering the mysteries of the universe, and creating at the intersection of art and science. The SPS community is grateful for Tracy’s lasting contributions to SPS and ΣΠΣ and honored to have called him friend and colleague for so many years.
