Staff Spotlight: Donna Snook

By Caitlin Dunnells, Staff Reporter

Donna Snook has been working at Hardin-Simmons University since August of 2008. Snook is currently the administrative assistant to the dean of the College of Human Sciences and Education Studies, as well as an adjunct-faculty member of the School of Kinesiology, Health and Recreation.

Snook was born in Bremerton, Washington, but grew up in West Texas. She graduated high school from Abilene Wylie ISD before going to college at Texas Tech University. “I planned on coming back to Abilene just for the summer after graduation, but I ended up staying,” Snook said.

Before working at HSU, Snook was a church secretary for eight years. Now, she works hard both as an administrative assistant to the dean and as a dance teacher. During the day, Snook works as the administrative assistant by supporting the dean, the Irvin School of Education and helping students. She also completes paperwork for the university, the State of Texas and for the federal government. Snook keeps up with the practice exams, real exams and student support.

“The best part of my day is when I get to cheer on a student who has accomplished a new goal, exam or decision. This is what we work for: life, future and supporting God’s purpose in people,” Snook said.

Snook also teaches beginning ballet during the fall semester and contemporary dance during the spring. She enjoys being able to express her creative side and pass on knowledge through these dance forms.

“Some of my students in my classes have never had a dance class before and I get to see them experience the art for the first time and then watch them own it at the end of the course. I believe that you are never too old to begin an art form,” Snook said.

Her favorite part of teaching dance classes is that it allows people to express themselves. Snook believes that people need avenues to express and that dance can be that avenue. In her eyes, university students need to find their voice and the quietest people can be loud and profound in how they express themselves in their movement.

During her time at HSU, Snook has learned to rally when a student is in trouble and rejoice when a student has a win. Her favorite memories are the real moments. For example, when the third floor of Abilene Hall flooded and rain fell to the second and first floor or when the hailstorm broke the windows out of the north side of Abilene Hall.

“People care and help each other at HSU. I enjoy helping. It’s the most rewarding part. I am confident in the people I work with. They care about their students and they care about their testimony. I am not wasting my time because we are making a difference,” Snook said.