Longtime Friend Passes

Former Upper School English teacher James A. Snavely passed away earlier this month at the age of 75. For 34 years, his presence, knowledge, and collegiality graced the Upper School. Mr. Snavely was a master teacher and served as a department head, girls` tennis coach, and director of the stage band. He challenged students with his course about landmarks of literature from Camus to Hemingway. During his years at Hawken, Mr. Snavely experienced the growth of the school - girls were enrolled, science wings were built, parking lots were paved, and gyms were constructed. In 1993, the Alumni Association bestowed upon Mr. Snavely the award of Honorary Alumnus. At his retirement in 1999, he received the distinction of Faculty Emeritus. Mr. Snavely leaves beyind his wife Barbara; children Jeff Snavely `79, Scott Snavely `82, and Ann Belding; stepdaughters Melissa Purdy `84 and Samantha Hodges `88; and eight grandchildren.