Before retiring in 2002, Charles Swift worked at J.T. Hutchinson Junior High School for 35 years, where he taught pre-AP biology and science. Charles was an excellent teacher and was deeply passionate about science, particularly geology and herpetology.

Charles worked with Holbrook Travel for over 22 years, leading many groups of teachers and students all over the world. His love for travel and adventure was equal to his love of sharing his adventures with others; he was a captivating storyteller and could turn any of his experiences into teachable moments for his students. Over the years he traveled around the world and succeeded in fulfilling his lifelong goal of visiting all 7 continents. Antarctica had eluded him for years, but his Holbrook consultant, Lisa Palmese-Graubard, knew it was on his list and when an opportunity arose in 2012, he finally made his dream of visiting all 7 continents a reality — a great milestone for a world explorer.

This week we were sad to learn that Charles passed away on March 7th, 2014. Holbrook Travel has made a donation in his honor to his charity of choice, the South Plains Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Lubbock, TX. Charles's reputation for being an engaging and life-changing teacher will continue to live on through the hundreds of students who he taught and inspired over the years.

Read more about Charles and his travels:

Charles Swift: Travelaholic (pt.1)

Charles Swift: Travelaholic (pt. 2)

Source: KYFO: Longtime Lubbock ISD Biology Teacher Charles H. Swift Dead at Age 73