Lou Swift graduated from Johns Hopkins in 1963 and joined UK’s faculty as the chair of the newly reformed Department of Classics in 1970. His research interests focus on the study of early Christianity, including the issue of war and peace in late antiquity, and the relationship between religion and politics in America. Though he officially retired in 2001, he continues to teach an undergraduate course on the connection between religion and politics in America.

In addition to his teaching duties at UK, Swift also served as the Associate Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs from 1996-1998, the Dean of Undergraduate Studies from 1990-1999, and the Director of the University Studies Program from 1986-1999. He was also recognized by the National Academic Advisors Association in 1997 with the Pace Setter Award. During his tenure at UK, he was instrumental in forming the Central Advising Office, the Undergraduate Research Program, and the Preparing Future Faculty Program.