Heather Snyder ’99, MA ’09, never thought that her interest in psychology would lead her astray from opening a therapy office en route to working in higher education. While her vocation does not seem like one that would implement psychology on the surface, it’s a subject she employs everyday as she interacts with students, makes informed decisions about Azusa Pacific University’s services, and spreads an uplifting presence everywhere she goes. As director of Auxiliary Services, Snyder is happy to serve her alma mater.
Originally from La Crescenta, Calif., Snyder has enjoyed living near Los Angeles her whole life. She went to community college for three years before transferring to APU. “I remember walking down Cougar Walk and everyone was so friendly. The welcoming atmosphere is truly what drew me in,” she said. Snyder studied psychology and worked at APU’s bookstore. “Having an on-campus job led me to make lifelong friends.” After graduating with her bachelor’s degree, Snyder worked at the bookstore as a staff member while earning her Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy at Hope International.
Snyder chose a psychology route because she was inspired by a therapist who guided her while navigating young adulthood. “I wanted to help people in the same way my therapist transformed my life,” she said. Many of Snyder’s friends and colleagues can attest to the fact that she is a great listening ear.
While Snyder continued working as a buyer at the bookstore and being immersed in staff roles at APU, she decided to earn her Master’s in Human Resources and Organizational Development. “I really love school. I just wanted to learn about business from a people-centered perspective,” she said.
Snyder did not expect to become director of Auxiliary Services, but she is grateful God led her where she finds fulfillment and joy in community. “My supervisors kept noticing different skill sets in me, giving me different responsibilities so I could continue to grow. Each opportunity eventually pushed me toward the director role,” she said.
For about a decade Snyder has served as director of Auxiliary Services, which entails overseeing many departments that allow students to flourish throughout their time at APU. “We take pride in serving people well,” Snyder said. From the Mailroom, to Dining Services and the Campus Store, Snyder and her team strive to make students’ experiences the best they can be. The heart of Auxiliary Services is to deepen community for students. Whether it’s through Latin inspired lunches at the 1899 Dining Hall to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, or ensuring students receive their mail, Snyder loves being a part of students’ formative years in unexpected ways.
“The thread throughout my life is getting thrown into unexpected experiences,” Snyder said. Last spring, she was asked to run Commencement. “I love event planning, and Commencement was such a rewarding thing to be a part of,” she said. There were many late nights and weekends spent collaborating with others to make sure everything was ready for the big day. “It wasn’t always easy, but it was all worth it. The energy in the room of graduates was palpable. I cried at the end of it all because I got to see the fruits of my labor and those who helped make a wonderful moment happen.”
Last year Snyder was voted Staff Person of the Year by her colleagues. “I’m so humbled by this recognition and honored to serve such a loving community,” she said.
Reflecting on her journey, Snyder attributes her strength to God. “I did not plan for APU to be where I’d make a difference, but the Lord opened the doors He knew I needed to walk through.” Snyder now knows that sometimes a leap of faith is all you need to take the first step towards the path God has called you toward.