When Ashli Snider arrived at Walsh University, she was captivated by the opportunity to pursue a degree in Museum Studies—a field that aligned perfectly with her career aspirations. “I was very excited to get started right away,” she recalled. The added challenge of Walsh’s Honors Program confirmed that this was the right place for her. “I love to be challenged,” she said, “and Walsh promised just that.”
The University’s mission to educate leaders in service to others left a lasting impression on Ashli. Unsure at first about her future in museum work, she discovered her passion for museum education. Now working part-time at the Akron Art Museum teaching students, she plans to continue in this field after graduation. “Just as the Walsh mission states, I seek to educate students so they can become future leaders as well.”
Ashli credits the University’s close-knit community as one of its defining strengths. “I know President and Mrs. Collins personally and see them regularly at school events,” she shared. “Not every college or university can boast such a community.”
Her involvement on campus has been nothing short of extraordinary. Ashli has represented students on the Walsh Library Committee since her freshman year and served as MET Senator in student government for two years before becoming President. In student government, she has also held roles as Chief Justice and currently serves as Senior Senator. Beyond governance, Ashli has led as Flute Section Leader in the Walsh University Band since 2023 and supported international students as an International Ambassador during her sophomore and junior years. She is also a member of Phi Alpha Theta, the national history honor society, and is completing her senior thesis in the Walsh Honors Program.
Academically, Ashli’s journey has been equally enriching. As a Museum Studies major with a focus on Visual and Performing Arts and a minor in history, she has researched topics close to her heart. Her Honors thesis explores her great-grandfather’s experience in World War II, a project that deepened her connection to her family. “This process has brought me closer to my grandfather, who shared memoirs and mementos from my great-grandfather. I cherish the relationship we have now more than ever.”
Walsh has not only fostered Ashli’s academic and personal growth but also opened doors to professional opportunities. Internships at the First Ladies National Historic Site and the Akron Art Museum, made possible through Walsh’s connections, have prepared her for a career in museum education. “I would not be where I am today without the help of Walsh and some amazing faculty and staff,” she said.
As graduation approaches, Ashli reflects on the moments that have shaped her. From lively gatherings in Menard Hall during freshman year to thought-provoking debates in Dr. Constance’s History of Science class—like whether mac and cheese qualifies as technology—Walsh has challenged her to grow. “I’m not sure we ever reached a conclusion,” she laughed, “but it taught me to expand my perspective.”
