As I sat in a quiet place and thought back of all the memories I have with Dawn a flood of tears streamed from my eyes.  After wiping the tears, I become overwhelmed with a joyous feeling as more and more memories came to mind.

Dawn was the first ISD person I called when my mom passed away suddently in the middle of the night.  It was 4:00 am and I knew I woke them up but she was sooooo understanding and helpful.  We both hiked in Alaska along with her sons.   When I went to the Council for Exceptional Children's conference we always had fun.  She always made me feel welcome even though she had other friends there as well.  We both loved carmel apple martinis from Mojo's in Grand Rapids.  She worked hard but she also knew how to play hard which is what you need to do if you're in education these days.  

I knew I could go to her with anything and she would guide me to find the answer.  I enjoyed talking to her about  her boys.  She is so proud of them.  While in meetings with her,  her focus was always on what is best for the student.  She was a big part of the Make a Difference Awards and wanted good people to get recognized for their job in education.

She was my role model.  I will miss her terribly.  

Becky Snyder