Alpha Phi Omega Alumni

Bio:
Karen Snepp, Statistics Bachelor of Science 1979. Spring 1976 pledge class – Loren Jarvis pledge class.
Post-Graduation Activities:
From Purdue, I went to Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management for an MBA in Marketing in 1981. During my two years there, an APO alum from the University of Florida and I recolonized Northwestern’s Sigma Chapter. (I’m not sure it survived.)
I went on to a 30+ year career in consumer marketing research, including leading the departments at Frito-Lay and Expedia. In my retirement, in addition to volunteering, I’m an avid traveler (New Zealand and England are my favorite countries so far), birder, golfer, Purdue sports fan, and attender of sheepdog trials (see the movie “Babe”).
Impact of APO:
APO set the tone for my lifetime of volunteerism and philanthropy, and as president in 1978, it also provided me with valuable leadership experience. My most impactful volunteer experience was with The Compassionate Friends, a nationwide self-help support organization for families following the death of a child, sibling, or grandchild. My parents and I turned to TCF following the 1988 cancer death of my 32-year-old brother Dave (Purdue AAE BS ‘77, MS ‘78). My 32 years of volunteering with TCF included serving as its national president (1996-1998) and chair of the TCF Foundation’s first endowment campaign (2001-2003).
Advice:
Look for your APO opportunities for all three pillars—be a leader, be a friend, be of service. Try out leading SOMETHING, whether it’s an activity, a committee, or the chapter. You’ll learn a lot about yourself. Please see your membership as more than a resume-builder. Volunteering is VERY rewarding!
Beyond APO, start saving money early…even a little adds up over time. If your company has a 401(k) match, max it!