The backstory
Chair of the board in 2024, Snyder has lived in The Woodlands for 36 years, according to a July 21 news release.
“Firstly, I want to emphasize how much I love The Woodlands,” Snyder said in a statement. “During my tenure on the township board, I have always been a strong believer of doing what is right for the sustainability of our hometown, and we have seen exciting growth in numerous projects. My decision to retire from this public service position was not an easy one, but it is the right direction for my family and for me. I know that I leave the township in capable hands.”
In a phone interview with Community Impact, Snyder added that public safety has been her focus as a board member. She said her belief in less government and lower taxes has also been a priority.
"My priority has always been public safety; it’s number one, and everything else revolves around if we are safe," she said. "We live in an incredibly safe community and work hand in hand with our law enforcement."
Snyder has been awarded a number of local recognitions and awards, such as the Interfaith of The Woodlands Hometown Heroes award; Montgomery County Woman of Distinction and Person of the Year; Rotary International Service Above Self; Rotary The Woodlands Paul Harris Award and Hall of Fame; Trailblazer Award; and Junior League Visionary.
She has been the grand marshal for the South County 4th of July Parade twice, including this year. In addition, Conroe ISD’s Ann K. Snyder Elementary School, which opened in 2013, was also named in her honor.
"It's never one person, it is a board that makes it happen," Snyder told Community Impact of the board's accomplishments since she has been a member. "There’s a number of items I’m very proud of that the board, not me, accomplished during my tenure on the board, but I also will say we are very blessed and fortunate to have the incredible leadership and staff at the township, and a executive management team under the auspice of our President and CEO Monique Sharp, and all the individuals [on the staff] are the ones who really should be applauded."
What they're saying
Nelda Luce Blair, the founding chair of The Woodlands Township board of directors, said Snyder's community service has also extended to other roles in The Woodlands.
“From her years on the Conroe ISD Board, to her years as CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands, to her roles as executive director of generosity and head of schools at The Woodlands Methodist Church, to her time on The Woodlands Township board, Ann has been the definition of a servant leader,” Blair said. “Not only is she a dear friend, but one of the most tenacious yet diplomatic people I have ever known. Those qualities have been the trademark of her successes in building our community. The township board will not be the same without Ann.”
“Ann’s impact on The Woodlands has been extraordinary,” said Eliecer Viamontes, president and CEO of Entergy Texas. “She leads with heart, brings people together, and always puts the community first. Her service may be shifting, but her influence will continue, and she’ll remain at the top of my call list not only for her advice but as a friend.”
What's next
Filing for this year's three open positions on The Woodlands Township board of directors opened July 19. While she will not run for re-election Nov. 4, Snyder said she is not retiring from other activities and will continue to serve in a variety of positions, such as:
- Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital, chair, board of trustees
- Conroe ISD Education Foundation, board of directors
- Interfaith of The Woodlands, board of advisors
- Montgomery County Food Bank, advisory committee
Snyder and her husband, Jerry, have two children and six grandchildren, all of whom live in The Woodlands, according to the release.
"It has been a gift to me to be a part [of the board], and it always takes more than one person to make this happen," Snyder said. "It was time [to not seek re-election], and I have new opportunities to pursue, and so I’m looking forward to my next chapter."
