Meet Jim Snyder ’87, Ph.D., Director of Community Engagement and Marketing at Quality Matters in Portland, where he lives with his wife and two children. Jim is a lifelong learner, passionate advocate for the accessibility of quality education, and has been committed to the education sector professionally for more than 20 years.

DR. SNYDER ON HIS PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND… You can trace my path all the way back to GA, as my love of education and constant learning was inspired by my experiences starting in 4th Grade. I earned degrees in physics and math from Kenyon College and a master’s degree in physics at the University of Oklahoma. I then moved to Oregon, met my wife, and earned an MBA from Portland State University. I decided to broaden my career and worked in various banking software roles, including for Nokia in Finland. After the dot-com bubble burst, I returned to my passion and earned a doctorate in education.

REFLECTING ON HIS STUDENT EXPERIENCES AT GA… I was amazed by all the different courses and extracurricular work I was able to pursue simultaneously at GA. I was immersed in a diverse array of activities, from honors courses in Spanish, calculus, and physics to playing the French horn, soccer, and running track, all while developing a deep love for education and the liberal arts. GA’s emphasis on balance and time management shaped my journey. Both of my parents were teachers, and with a family deeply rooted in education, GA reinforced the belief that education is invaluable and set me on a path of lifelong learning.

SPEAKING TO HIS INSPIRATION AND WHAT DRIVES HIM TODAY… I love what I do. At Quality Matters, I’ve learned that success isn’t only about profit - it’s about making a difference. GA taught me the value of being mission-driven. We’re committed to helping non-traditional students - those balancing families or careers - access high-quality education.  

ADVICE FOR CURRENT GA STUDENTS AND RECENT GRADUATES… Say yes! Embrace every opportunity that comes your way, especially the ones that make you uncomfortable. Growth happens in those moments of discomfort - when you’re vulnerable, you learn the most. It’s like sitting around the Harkness table at GA, where you cannot hide from tough discussions. Getting comfortable with vulnerability is one of the greatest lessons. It pushes you to grow and opens doors to new possibilities.

DR. SNYDER ON LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE FIELD… Playing soccer at GA instilled lessons that have stayed with me throughout life. A powerful reminder that even in the face of defeat, teamwork and determination can lead to success. I often recall the 100th anniversary of GA/PC weekend in 1986 when our team was down 3-0 at halftime but turned around to win 5-3. Whether on the field or in the classroom, being challenged by coaches who were also my teachers - Coach Wilson Oelkers 1760 - showed me the importance of resilience. I still play soccer, and the friendships and teamwork I experience on the field are a powerful metaphor for life and work. Lead from wherever you are.