Newton parent, longtime local volunteer and marketing executive Linda Swain is running for School Committee, and she’s the first candidate to be publicly endorsed by the person whose seat they’re aiming for.

Swain is running—unopposed so far— for the Ward 2 seat currently held by Chair Chris Brezski, who announced this week that he would not seek reelection this year. In his announcement, Brezski endorsed Swain for his seat.

Swain, a marketing vice president with National Development, was raised by a mother who taught special education and has two kids who have gone through the Newton Public Schools. She’s volunteered in the city for two decades, most recently as co-president of the Newton North Boosters Association.

“My decision to run for School Committee is grounded in a lifelong belief in the importance of public education,” Swain said in announcing her run. “As a parent, volunteer, and professional, I’ve seen the impact that thoughtful decisions and strong collaboration can have on student outcomes. I also recognize that students’ needs have shifted dramatically in recent years, creating new complexities for educators and placing increased strain on the school budget. I’m ready to listen, lead, and serve with a focus on what’s best for our children.”

Swain’s husband, George, was raised in Newton, and she moved back with him 20 years ago to raise kids in the Newton Public Schools.

Swain earned her undergraduate degree from Tufts University and her MBA from Boston College. She’s worked in commercial real estate for many years and has held leadership roles in marketing at a variety of companies in the Boston area.

She’s also served on the boards of Riverside Children’s Center and the Cabot After School Program, and she volunteers as a Land Steward for Newton’s Conservation Office.

Brezski, who has served on the School Committee for four years, endorsed Swain on the same day he announced he wasn’t running for another term.

“I have gotten to know Linda, and I believe she will continue to advance the School Committee’s view toward data-driven decision-making with a focus on student outcomes,” Brezski said. “I know she will work toward fulfilling Dr. Nolin’s vision of a system that puts students first and communicates transparently with the community.”

Swain said she’s running on her professional and personal values—excellence, transparency, problem-solving and collaboration—as the schools face one unprecedented challenge after another.

If elected, Swain will be part of a new era for the School Committee, as more than half the committee members (including the mayor) are not running for reelection.

You can check out Swain’s campaign website here.