Hall of Fame
Joe Schwartz garnered national attention as a linebacker for the football program, being named a First Team FFC Linebacker and a two-time preseason All-American. A co-captain in 1992 and 1993, Schwartz also earned the team’s Defensive MVP award those same two years, was named the NCAA Player of the Week twice, and was rated as one of the top three linebackers in the conference in 1992.
“It is truly an honor to be inducted into the Norwich Hall of Fame. It was an honor to wear the Norwich Football Maroon & Gold and represent the longstanding Norwich traditions passed down from year to year. The leadership lessons I learned, truly are the cornerstone to my success in life. Coach Mike Norman used to say, ‘Football is a team sport that teaches us the power of unity, determination and resilience.’ Being a Norwich football player refers to embodying qualities such as strength, resilience, leadership, and integrity both on and off the field. It means having a work ethic, displaying courage in tough situations, and showing respect for opponents, teammates, coaches, and officials. Additionally, being a Norwich football player involves taking responsibility for one’s actions and being accountable to a cause greater than yourself, team first always. Furthermore, Norwich Football teaches us the importance of demonstrating humility in victory and grace in defeat, ultimately it emphasizes the importance of sportsmanship and character that follows you a lifetime.”
While at Norwich, Schwartz was part of numerous extracurricular activities, including Skull and Swords, Honor Committee President, Ring Committee, and Command Sergeant Major in the Corps of Cadets.
“My football experience was filled with lots of obstacles and challenges in both the classroom and on the field. The coaches used to say, ‘The real measure of a man is not when they are winning or having success, rather they want to see how players respond when they are facing obstacles or getting knocked down.’ Coach Mike Norman taught me valuable lessons that would last a lifetime. He taught me the importance of principled accountability that extend way beyond the game itself. The commitment he demanded of his players was only second to the time and commitment he put into the role of coaching. The values and character traits that he demanded of his players goes beyond the game of football. His work ethic, discipline , values, and character were the cornerstone of my success at Norwich. The 5 AM daily work outs and two-a-days were something that would last a lifetime. We have stayed in touch and he has been the most influential person in my life besides my father. His mentorship, guidance, and counsel are something that has endured a lifetime.”
Schwartz graduated with his MBA from St. Louis University in 1998. He has served in different capacities within organizational and community memberships, including being a member of ASSP, OSHA 10 and 30, and the Oversee College internship program. He has also been a youth coach at the YMCA level and with Coach Pop Warner Football. He is currently a safety manager at Eversource.
“I am very grateful for Norwich University, the education, and credit the school for all my success on and off the field. I am most proud of my wife Nicole and our children Joey and Nick Schwartz. My wife is truly my best friend and someone I admire most for her commitment and dedication that goes beyond reproach. Our boys have exceeded our expectations and continue to exhibit all the characteristics that Norwich represents. My family and I are honored to be here, but my greatest accomplishments in my life is my family and Norwich University education.”
