As a third-generation funeral director, Chad Snyder has a unique perspective of the profession. In 1947, Chad's grandfather, Charles F. Snyder, opened a funeral home in downtown Lancaster, and the business grew to offer locations in Millersville, Willow Street, Lititz and other parts of the county. Chad watched his father, Chip Snyder, run the business after Charles retired, and Chad became the director in 2018. Chad was appointed to the Pennsylvania State Board of Directors earlier this year, and he said he plans to use his experience to bridge the gap between funeral directors and state legislators to benefit Lancaster and communities throughout the state.

Since joining the state board of funeral directors, Chad has taken monthly trips to the capitol to meet with other funeral directors and government officials during public sessions. The meetings incorporate discussions on various issues that impact the funeral industry, such as the evaluation of funeral directors' licenses and newly proposed legislation that could have cascading effects on funeral services across Pennsylvania. At 42 years old, Chad is the youngest member of the board, and he said he hopes to offer his fresh perspective of the industry to the board's discussions.

"I'm looked at as the next generation of directors and a new set of eyes," Chad said. "My desire is to be a spokesperson for great funeral service and to advocate for high standards, ethics and values. I'm very honored and humbled to be a representative for funeral services across the state."

In addition to being the youngest member, Chad is the only member of the state board of funeral directors to operate multiple funeral homes. Chad helped design Charles F. Snyder's Willow Street location, and he continues to work with his father to run the business. "My dad is still very involved, which I'm very grateful and blessed for," Chad said. "I think my perspective will be helpful when looking at different situations brought to the board."

Chad said he hopes to advocate for funeral directors and clients in every community in Pennsylvania in addition to Lancaster County. "I'm taking on an important role not just for the community I live and work in, but to be a shoulder for other directors to lean on when they need help," added Chad. "Across the board, we want to have the general public have a pleasant experience when the need arises."

Charles F. Snyder's Willow Street location will host an educational workshop this October to explore different areas of funeral services and cremation services. For more information, visit http://www.snyderfuneralhome.com.