About the Author
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About - Dr. Donna J. Snyder
Dr. Donna Snyder is the author and handler of PAL Hershey. She is a former elementary teacher, district-level curriculum specialist, principal and Director of Early Childhood and Elementary Education for a diverse, urban school system. She is an experienced school turnaround principal, focused on increasing academic achievement of students in underperforming schools. She has vast experience in both public and private education.
Donna has been a dog lover, owner and advocate her entire life. She and PAL Hershey volunteer multiple times weekly throughout the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Donna is also an active member of the nonprofit organization People Animals Love (PAL) and serves in various roles to support the organization’s mission. Donna is proud to serve on the Board of Directors of PAL.
Vision
Dr. Snyder and Hershey center their beliefs around a profound statement by David Viscott: "The Meaning of Life is to Find Your Gift. The Purpose of Life is to Give it Away." Our vision is to freely and generously bring the gift of joy, laughter and comfort to others: young and old and all of those in between, through broad-based volunteering and service to our community.
Mission
Dr. Donna Snyder and her therapy dog, Hershey, share one common mission. Hershey is a registered AKC therapy dog. He is a confident, curious and lovable 5-pound Yorkie with a zest for life works side by-side with his owner and handler, Donna Snyder. Dr. Snyder is an accomplished educator and advocate for therapy animals. As a therapy team, they share a common purpose: to serve their community and bring joy and love to others. Simple as that may sound, it guides their daily lives.