Staff Profiles

More than 100 staff members work in the Division of the Humanities. We’ll introduce you to our staff in this continuing series.

Claire Snarski
Graphic Design Specialist
Department of Music and UChicago Presents

What do you like most about your job?

What I like most about my job is working with a group of spectacular colleagues. Every day I work with peers who are kind, knowledgeable, hard-working, and always willing to help and support me is a luxury that many people do not have in their workplace environment. I have worked for the Department of Music and UChicago Presents for a long time, and I have been fortunate enough to meet so many amazing people.

What was the last good book you read?

I wish I could say that I have read a lot of stellar books lately, but unfortunately my recent book count is way down due to my excitement over listening to podcasts…hello from a typical millennial! So maybe I share podcasts instead? If you’re looking to learn fun and interesting stories about Chicago, check out Curious City. If you love a good origin story for design and history topics, take a listen to 99% Invisible.

You might work with me if …

… you are part of the Department of Music and you are presenting or performing in one of our many concerts scheduled throughout the year. One of my main responsibilities for the Department of Music/UChicago Presents is creating all the promotional materials for each event/concert. You’ve probably seen my work up around campus! Interested in attending free concerts with student/staff/community member performers or excited to see world-class artists by purchasing discounted tickets for staff and faculty? Visit music.uchicago.edu to learn more.

What are you looking forward to in 2023?

More than 100 staff members work in the Division of the Humanities. We’ll introduce you to our staff in this continuing series.

Rosemary Cook
Assistant Director, Academic Affairs

What do you like most about your job?

Academic Affairs has a window into the research and growth that is happening in each department that I wouldn't otherwise see. I like the variety of tasks, people, and subject matter that this position allows me to interact with; we're never bored! I'm also a process-oriented person, so it is satisfying to participate in both the micro- and macro- operations that occur throughout the division and see the results of long-term efforts.

What was the last good book you read?

Two novels I read recently both were set in locations that really made an impression: "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson is a worthwhile read, especially while you're in Hyde Park! It details the simultaneous stories of the construction of the 1893 World's Fair right here on Midway Plaisance and the crimes committed by H.H. Holmes in his "Murder Castle" in Englewood. As a mystery and architecture enthusiast, it was tailor-made for me, and so well written it's hard to remember it's non-fiction! Secondly, "East of Eden" by John Steinbeck. A favorite author of mine, his writings about Salinas and close-knit families always make me nostalgic for where I grew up in Northern California.

You might work with me if …

...you have questions about divisional or University policies, are conducting a search for an academic position, are recommending an appointment for a visitor or new hire, are completing a review, or are undergoing personnel processes such as promotion, retirement, or leave.

If you could live anywhere, where would you choose? 

Wherever I live I hope I’m always near a Broadway theater, an airport, a baseball stadium, and a coastline. Chicago checks all the boxes! Recent favorites: Moulin Rouge!, MDW to OAK, White Sox, Promontory Point.