Driven by purpose and a lifelong dedication to service, Courtney Marie Snyder has forged a dynamic career in nonprofit leadership. As the vice president of philanthropy and community engagement at Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, she leads a wide range of organizational functions, including fundraising, event management, accounting, human resources, marketing and development. In this capacity, she collaborates with government representatives in California and Florida to secure appropriated funds and directs public relations for Sound Off, a nonprofit serving military and first responder communities. Among her notable achievements, she exceeded the institute’s fundraising goals for the last fiscal year by 35 percent, demonstrating her ability to strengthen donor relationships and generate new support.
Ms. Snyder earned a Bachelor of Science in sport management from University of West Georgia in Carrollton. Her academic background laid the foundation for her early work in recreation and sport administration while providing the strategic and leadership skills that later propelled her into philanthropy and organizational management. She holds multiple professional certifications, including lifeguarding instructor from the American Red Cross; aquatic facility operator from the National Recreation and Park Association; lifeguard and CPR/AED certification from the American Red Cross; CPR, first aid and emergency oxygen instructor from YMCA of the USA; and lifeguarding instructor credentials from both the YMCA of the USA and the American Red Cross.
Before rising to her current position, Ms. Snyder worked as director of development at Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute, where she enhanced the organization’s philanthropic strategy and built enduring relationships with key stakeholders. She also led marketing and fundraising for Task Force Dagger Special Operations Foundation, overseeing campaigns that supported special operations personnel and their families. Her earlier experience as an emergency financial assistance specialist with Wounded Warrior Project further solidified her commitment to advocacy, as she provided critical aid to veterans in need.
Ms. Snyder also brought her expertise to roles that deepened her understanding of donor relations, financial stewardship and program management. As stewardship and finance specialist with the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida, she implemented initiatives to strengthen donor engagement. Her tenure as director of Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society allowed her to oversee essential programs for service members and their families, ensuring they had access to timely resources and financial support.
Building upon her foundation in recreation and community service, Ms. Snyder previously served as a program assistant at CNIC Navy Fleet and Family Support Center; a recreation assistant with Morale, Welfare and Recreation at the United States Department of Defense; an aquatics director at YMCA of Snohomish County; a sport management intern with the Department of Defense; an aquatics coordinator for Carrollton Parks and Recreation; and a water safety instructor and senior head lifeguard at Douglas County Parks and Recreation. These formative positions strengthened her skills in leadership, organization, and community relations, all of which continue to guide her work today.
Throughout her career, Ms. Snyder has cultivated expertise in fundraising, communications, social media strategy, donor engagement and public relations. She is a member of Chief, a private network for executive women focused on leadership development and mentorship. She also serves as an independent consultant for Southern Indian Health Council and maintains active involvement with the San Diego chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and the Grant Professionals Association, reflecting her dedication to ongoing professional growth and excellence in nonprofit management.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Ms. Snyder is actively involved in civic and community initiatives. She has volunteered with Last Chance Triathlon through Douglas County Parks and Recreation; founded and coordinated workouts for Stroller Warriors Rota; served as president of the USS Carney DDG 64 Family Readiness Group; coached the Special Olympics swim team with Douglas County Parks and Recreation; and supported Sound Off through volunteer marketing efforts. Her innovative approach earned her the Innovation Award from YMCA of Snohomish County in recognition of her creative contributions to community programming.
Looking ahead, Ms. Snyder remains devoted to strengthening nonprofit organizations and expanding their capacity to serve diverse communities. She aspires to one day assume a chief executive officer role within a nonprofit organization, confident that her experience, passion and leadership will continue to drive meaningful impact for years to come.