As Barbara R. Snyder entered her final weeks as Case Western Reserve’s president, alumni began sharing recollections as part of an online tribute.
Their observations have been so moving that today The Daily invites current students—as well as faculty and staff—to join them.
Members of the campus community can submit their memories—and photos—of President Snyder through an online form.
Consider the example of Mike (Siberski) McQueen (CWR ’16), who pointed to the president as “one of the main reasons I chose CWRU for my undergraduate experience.” Upon arriving, he found her commitment to LGBTQ+ students went beyond expressions of support; she regularly attended events such as Lavender Graduation.
“She consistently backed up her words about celebrating LGBT students at CWRU with actions like these,” McQueen wrote, “which I think is a true sign of leadership.”
Christian Wargo (CWR ’13), who served three terms as class president for the Class of 2013, called her “one of the most inspiring and influential women that I know.
“As an undergraduate student, I looked up to her in every way,” he wrote. “I had the pleasure of getting to know her through various leadership activities and events I participated in on campus, often joking with friends and classmates that we were both ‘tight’ because we shared the same role.”
Those who were students during her leadership were not the only ones she impressed.
“I was able to attend my first alumni reunion in 2018,” said Rev. Susan (Brady) Ventura (FSM ’68), “and was amazed by President Snyder’s contagious energy and strong, creative, leadership vision.”
Snyder, who next will lead the Association of American Universities, serves her last day as president a week from today.
That date, Wednesday, Sept. 30, is also the deadline for submissions. Please take a moment to share a memory, story and/or photo that captures her impact. Participants can designate whether they prefer their contributions be shared only with President Snyder, or with the broader university community.