
Katherine Snyder named new associate dean of Student Affairs at Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine

The 蜜柚视频 Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine has announced the appointment of Katherine Snyder, Ph.D., as the new associate dean of Student Affairs. Snyder brings extensive experience in student life and a deep commitment to student support, having previously served in leadership roles at Denison University and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Snyder most recently held the position of associate vice president of student life at Denison University and formerly served as associate dean of students at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she also earned her doctoral degree in education policy, organization and leadership.
Executive Dean Ken Johnson, D.O., praised Snyder鈥檚 selection, noting her alignment with the college鈥檚 mission and values.
鈥淭hroughout the search process, it became evident that Katherine possesses a deep understanding of our college and the unique offerings of osteopathic medicine to health care. Her collaborative spirit and genuine passion for supporting students distinguished her from the outset, and I look forward to the many ways her leadership will enrich the medical student experience,鈥 he said.
Johnson also extended his gratitude to Terry Hogan, Ph.D., who has served as interim associate dean of Student Affairs since January, following the department鈥檚 separation from Admissions. Hogan will remain in the role through the end of October to support a smooth transition.
鈥淗is efforts have positioned the department for continued success and laid the foundation for Katherine to thrive in this role,鈥 said Johnson.
鈥淲hat excites me is the opportunity to continue Dr. Hogan and Dr. Schriner鈥檚 momentum, honoring what鈥檚 been built while exploring what comes next,鈥 said Snyder. 鈥淎nd I hope to do that work in partnership with our talented Student Affairs professionals, with faculty who are invested in student growth, and with students themselves, who bring so much insight and leadership to the table.鈥
Snyder said that while her vision for Student Affairs will evolve, right now she is focused on 鈥渃onnection, collaboration and care鈥 and sees Student Affairs as a place where faculty and staff partner 鈥渢o create an environment where academic success, personal growth, wellness and belonging all come together.鈥
Snyder expressed excitement about building relationships across the college.
鈥淗COM has such a strong and positive reputation for producing talented and mission-driven physicians, and I鈥檓 thrilled for the opportunity to contribute,鈥 she said. 鈥淚鈥檓 excited to get to know the students and understand more about their journeys to the Heritage College, future aspirations, and how we in Student Affairs can best support them along the way. And I鈥檓 just as eager to connect with the faculty, whose expertise and mentorship play such a vital role in shaping the student experience. I鈥檓 also excited to join a team of incredibly talented Student Affairs professionals. I鈥檓 looking forward to learning from them, supporting their growth, and working together to bring new ideas to life.鈥
Looking ahead, Snyder identified several opportunities to advance student support at the Heritage College. These include continuing to integrate wellness into the medical school experience, elevating talent and leadership and using data-informed practices to shape future initiatives.
鈥淲e have the opportunity to look closely at what鈥檚 working, listen to what students are telling us, and develop and deploy initiatives that are not only effective but student-centered,鈥 said Snyder.
She underscored the importance of empowering staff and students alike. 鈥淪tudents bring so many skills and experiences to the table, and so many of them are already leaders and changemakers. I鈥檇 love to continue to help elevate their voices and build more opportunities for leadership,鈥 she said.