Sanders, whose full name was Glenn Steven Sanders, began working in health care in the Houston region in 1982, and he served as vice president and CEO of Memorial Southeast Hospital until 1994 before beginning his role in The Woodlands, according to his obituary.
Sanders also brought the Canopy Cancer Survivorship Center to Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center, which provides support services for cancer survivors and their caregivers at no charge, according to his obituary.
Among Sanders' other community leadership roles include chairing the following organizations:
- The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce
- The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership
- Yes to Youth
- Lone Star College Foundation
- LifeGift
Sanders was also a founding member of the leadership board for Leadership Montgomery County, served on the Medical Advisory Board for Interfaith of The Woodlands and played a role in bringing the Ironman competition to The Woodlands, according to information in his obituary.
"Steve had a very full, productive life, one well lived and deserved," his wife, Kathy Sanders, said to Community Impact in an email. "He was an inspirational leader who accomplished more in his 20 years serving The Woodlands than most do in a lifetime. His contributions to The Woodlands and surrounding communities will leave an everlasting impact to many. He was loved and will be missed."
Quotes of note
- "Steve was a thoughtful, loving husband. He was my partner in life and best friend. His passing leaves an enormous hole in my life," Kathy Sanders said.
- "The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce mourns the passing of past board chairman (1997-98) and pillar of our community, Steve Sanders. Mr. Sanders was committed to service and a steadfast champion of the chamber’s mission. His leadership, generosity and belief in the power of community will leave a lasting legacy. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and all who knew and admired him," said officials with The Woodlands Area Chamber of Commerce in a statement to Community Impact.
- “During the more than three decades Steve dedicated to Memorial Hermann, he played a critical role in hospital growth, facility development and advancing quality care across the system," said Dr. David Callendar, president and CEO of Memorial Hermann Health System, in a statement. "He was widely respected as a principled, people-centered leader who was deeply committed to his teams and to the broader community, which he served through his leadership on numerous boards and committees. We extend our deepest condolences to Steve’s family during this time, and to the many colleagues and community members whose lives and careers he influenced.”
- "Steve Sanders was the epitome of a true community leader. For more than 20 years ... he didn't just lead an organization, he showed up for the entire community," said Linda Nelson, director of business development and regional marketing at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Medical Center. "Steve's energy and enthusiasm were contagious. He led with integrity, compassion and a genuine desire to make life better for others. Today, when people talk about Steve Sanders, they do so with a smile—a reflection of the kindness, leadership and lasting impact he leaves behind. Our community is better because of him, and he will be deeply missed."
