Dayna R. Snell, LCSW
daynarenee01@gmail.com
Dayna R. Snell, LCSW is a champion for humankind and has devoted her life using her talents to help others. Ms. Snell earned a master’s degree in social work from Southern Connecticut State University and a postmaster’s certificate in clinical supervision from Smith College. Her “heart work” blends social work expertise, insight, and artistic abilities which inspire others to reach their fullest potential. Ms. Snell is the founder and executive director of Queen Ann Nzinga Center, Inc., (QANC) a 35+-year-old nonprofit that infuses arts, humanities and culturally centered programing to at-risk children and youth. In addition, the program model she developed is rooted in informed togetherness, social justice, education, empowerment, valued community, and liberation for all. This is realized by bringing talented people together from diverse disciplines, cultures, and experiences to create a multicultural and multigenerational community of support and empowerment.
Ms. Snell retired from the State of Connecticut Department of Children and Families after more than 35 years of dedicated service as a program supervisor. She began her work as an entry level child protective services social worker and swiftly moved into the role of supervisor in that domain. Her desire to make a difference by simply ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children, youth, and their families wasn’t enough. A combination of drive, skills and abilities afforded Ms. Snell multiple opportunities to service specialized populations across the department. Notably during her tenure, Ms. Snell created and implemented a Formal Rites of Passage program for 27 girls in the state’s custody and development DCF’s first and only Arts and Music Academy.
As a retiree, Dayna R. Snell continues to use her skills to make pathways that positively impact the lives of others in her community. Currently, she works part-time for the Town of Plainville as a Youth Services Coordinator. Bringing her expertise, she provides clinical supervision for student interns, has developed a leadership response to local high school bullying, is the chair of the antiracism task force and has hosted Plainville’s first Juneteenth Celebration in 2023. At Queen Ann Nzinga Center, Inc., retirement has afforded her the opportunity to build capacity and solid connections in the greater community.
Ms. Snell was immersed in music from a very young age which built her foundation to use music as a modality for healing. Following the footsteps of her grandmother, she directed multiple choirs. With an ability to see potential in others she also mentors both amateur and professional artists. She creates platforms to bring performing artists of all genres, generations, and levels of professionalism together to showcase their talents. She has a 30+-year history of producing professional performances at multiple venues on state, national and internationally levels. She continues to do so today.
Dayna R Snell’s highest honor is having the privilege to be the mother of 5 amazing resilient adult children and a proud grandmother of two grandsons. She gives all the glory to God who is the head of her life and much credit to her amazing mother, her maternal grandmother and grandfather that stood in the gap. She is grateful for her church foundation, her aunts and uncles, a complicated school system, support received from elders, mentors and believers along the way.