Kennedy’s story embodies what happens when talent stays home. Raised in Huntington’s theater community (where her father ran the Huntington Children’s Theatre), she learned early about the power of community, vulnerability, and mutual support.
Featured Leader: Kennedy Snider
Marketing Specialist, Peoples Federal Credit Union | 2024 GWV Fellow
At People’s Federal Credit Union, Kennedy serves three counties (Kanawha, Mason, and Putnam) with affordable financial solutions. In a state where traditional banking often fails working families, credit unions provide essential economic infrastructure. Each month, the credit union gives away $1,000 to a member, moments Kennedy describes as “priceless.”
“One of the most fulfilling aspects of the fellowship has been expanding my network within our cohort,” Kennedy shares. “Connecting with other young professionals with similar goals has helped melt away any sense of isolation I previously felt as a young person working to make an impact in West Virginia.”
This networking directly benefits her work: understanding small business challenges from fellow cohort members improves how she serves credit union members. Learning about workforce development helps her craft better financial products for working families.
Kennedy’s story demonstrates why employers should invest in leadership development. With expanded perspective and connections, she recently helped write and direct the credit union’s first commercial, bringing fresh approaches that strengthen member engagement and organizational impact.