Snyder, Dr. Donald C. and Courtney F. Endowed Chair in Medical Education
The Dr. Donald C. and Courtney F. Snyder Endowed Chair in Medical Education was established in 2001 by a generous gift from Dr. and Mrs. Snyder. Dr. Snyder was always inspired and motivated by his mother, Jennie Lynn Smedley Snyder, and dedicates this gift to her memory. Dr. Snyder became one of the Akron area’s most well- respected physician-surgeons, recognized by colleagues for his many years of professional service and contributions in the field of medicine, his published work in scientific journals, and his listing in Who’s Who in the Midwest. Originally from Medina and a graduate of Case Western Reserve University, Dr. Snyder did his four-year residency at University Hospitals in Cleveland, coming to Akron in 1940. He became the catalyst for developing Akron's first training program for young doctors in obstetrics/gynecology, preparing hundreds of doctors who became board-certified in that specialty. With the overcrowded hospitals of the early 1950s, Dr. Snyder was the first doctor to perform same-day surgery.
Dr. and Mrs. Snyder’s lifetime objective of helping others and a strong belief in the value of higher education have guided their desire to leave an ongoing legacy. In recognition of Dr. Snyder’s leadership—both professionally and in his personal life—The Dr. Donald C. and Courtney F. Snyder Endowed Chair in Medical Education is to be used in support of an outstanding University of Akron faculty member in the University’s programs to prepare future physicians. Selection for the Endowed Chair is to be made by the President and Board of Trustees of The University of Akron.