Q&A with College of Human Sciences 2026 Spring Graduation Marshal Sophie Snyder

Snyder, an extremely talented chef and owner of Sophie Sweets, also represents the College of Human Sciences as the 2026 President’s Award recipient for possessing outstanding qualities of leadership, citizenship, character and promise of professional ability. 

She’s used those outstanding skills and leadership traits to expand her thriving cake business through Auburn’s Incubator restaurant space and moving forward, she will use a combined $45,000 first-place prize she recently won for competing in and winning the 2026 Tiger Cage Business Idea Competition to further expand her business following graduation.

Below, learn more about Snyder’s success during her time at Auburn and what drove her to pursue the culinary science option in the Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management and her future plans following graduation.

What does the honor of serving as the Graduation Marshal for the College of Human Sciences mean to you?

“Being named the Graduation Marshal for the College of Human Sciences is incredibly meaningful to me. It represents not only the work I’ve put in academically, but also the growth I’ve experienced as a student and a leader. It’s an honor to represent a college that has given me so many opportunities and support along the way. More than anything, it reflects the people who have poured into me — professors, mentors and the Auburn community, and I’m grateful to stand in that role as a reflection of all of them.”

What made you decide on this degree?

“Growing up, I spent much of my time baking, which naturally developed into a strong passion for creating desserts. Over time, that passion turned into something more serious when I started my own wedding cake business. Because of this, I knew I wanted a degree that would allow me to refine both my technical skills and my understanding of the industry. When I learned about the culinary science option, it felt like the perfect fit — especially since the culinary science option launched the same year I started as a freshman. I took that timing as a sign and made the decision to switch into the program.”

What did you find most appealing about the culinary science option in the Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management?

“What stood out to me most about the culinary science option was the hands-on learning environment, particularly the opportunity to work in lab classes set in real commercial kitchens. Being able to gain practical, real-world experience while still in school has been incredibly valuable. I also really appreciated that the hospitality management degree includes a business minor, which has helped me better understand the operational and financial side of running a business. That combination of culinary skills and business knowledge has been especially beneficial for my own ventures.”

What are your plans following graduation?

“Following graduation, I plan to continue growing my business, Sophie Sweets, by expanding its presence across Auburn’s campus. I see a lot of opportunities to reach more students and create a stronger brand within the community. In addition, I plan to continue and further develop my wedding cake business locally.”