Dr. James Snyder: Academic Leader and Student Advocate at Marist University
Dr. James Snyder is an influential academic leader and philosophy professor at Marist University, where his commitment to student engagement, innovative teaching, and academic leadership has shaped campus life and curriculum development. At Marist, Snyder has held multiple roles including Director of the Honors Program and Interim Dean for Communication and the Arts, and he currently serves as Dean of Academic Engagement.
A Familiar and Approachable Leader
After nearly 12 years at Marist, Snyder has become a well?known presence around campus. As a professor and administrator, he’s admired for his approachable leadership style and genuine interest in students’ lives. One student described how Snyder makes you feel like the most important person he’s talked to all week—a testament to his emphasis on listening and personal connection.
Stepping into Leadership Roles
In fall 2020, Dr. Snyder stepped in as Interim Dean for the School of Communication and the Arts during a leadership transition. In this role, he worked closely with faculty and department chairs to ensure a smooth academic year and helped plan digital course adaptations as the university responded to changing conditions.
While serving as interim dean, Snyder continued overseeing core academic programs, including First Year Seminars and the https://www.jamesbsnydermd.com/ Honors Program, showcasing his ability to balance administrative responsibility with close engagement in student learning.
Transforming Honors Education
Snyder’s most notable impact has been through the Honors Program. During his time as director (2014–2019), he helped redesign the curriculum and significantly increased student enrollment, expanding participation from just over 200 students to nearly 550. His leadership turned the Honors Program into a vibrant forum for cross?disciplinary learning, undergraduate research, and immersive academic experiences.
He treated the Honors Program almost like a laboratory, encouraging courses that pushed students beyond traditional classroom boundaries—including seminars tied to real?world cultural experiences such as discussions on migration in Florence, Italy.
Philosophical Approach to Teaching
Snyder’s teaching philosophy is shaped by his background in philosophy and a focus on virtue ethics—a classical framework that emphasizes human flourishing. This perspective guided his efforts to help students explore not just academic content but also personal fulfillment and life goals, especially in his Senior Seminar course.
His personal journey—including early losses in his family—has informed his empathetic approach to education, where meaning and purpose are central to mentoring students.
Continuing Influence at Marist
Today, as Dean of Academic Engagement, Dr. Snyder continues to provide leadership across high?impact academic programs and supports student success initiatives that extend beyond individual disciplines. His influence at Marist reflects a deep commitment to nurturing both intellectual growth and personal development among students.