Knoxville, TN, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Dr. William “Bill” Thomas Snyder, a former chancellor of the University of Tennessee, has passed away at the age of 93. Renowned for his advocacy in education and the arts, Snyder played a significant role in the university’s growth and cultural impact. His contributions include enhancing minority student enrollment and leading a fundraising campaign that raised $432 million. Known for his love of theater and music, he served as the house organist at the Tennessee Theatre. A celebration of his life is planned by his family.
KNOXVILLE, TN — Dr. William “Bill” Thomas Snyder, former chancellor of the University of Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Monday morning at the age of 93 after a brief illness. He died at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center while listening to music.
Snyder was a dedicated advocate for education and the arts, particularly in theater and music. He began his career at the UT Space Institute in the early 1960s as an engineering professor and later served as dean of the College of Engineering before becoming chancellor in 1993. He retired from the University of Tennessee in 1999.
His daughter, Edye Snyder, noted his profound love for theater and music, which was evidenced by his volunteer work as the house organist at the Tennessee Theatre. Snyder played the theater’s Mighty Wurlitzer organ for special movie screenings and lunchtime concerts for many years. He often gave tours of the Tennessee Theatre, referring to it as his “home away from home,” and donated any payment received from tours back to the theater.
Known as “the Students’ Chancellor,” Snyder made a significant impact on the university’s culture by being accessible to students and advocating for increased minority student enrollment. He collaborated with UT President Joe Johnson on the 21st Century Campaign, which raised an impressive $432 million for the university, exceeding its original $250 million goal.
Under Snyder’s leadership, the university embraced technological advancements, introducing the campus to the internet age and implementing a 24/7 message forum for students to voice their concerns. In 1996, he was recognized as Chancellor of the Year by the African American Leadership Association for his commitment to supporting minority students. The UT student newspaper, The Daily Beacon, commended Snyder’s dedication and genuine care for the student body.
Snyder was a scholarship holder throughout his academic journey, earning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Tennessee in 1954 and both his master’s and doctoral degrees from Northwestern University. He contributed over 50 publications in the field of engineering, and prior to his return to Tennessee, he held teaching roles at North Carolina State University and the State University of New York at Stony Brook.
During his tenure as dean of the College of Engineering, Snyder established several chairs of excellence and research centers, further enhancing the university’s academic standing. His time as chancellor also coincided with the Vols winning the national championship in football in 1998, a notable event for the university.
After stepping down as chancellor, he continued to support the university’s fundraising and tech integration efforts until his retirement from academia in 2004. He was influential in completing significant restorations to the Mighty Wurlitzer organ and the Tennessee Theatre, securing $25 million in funding for renovations.
Dr. Snyder is survived by his wife, Margaret “Margi” Snyder, their three daughters, and seven grandchildren. A celebration of life for Snyder is being planned by his family.
FAQ
Who was Dr. William “Bill” Thomas Snyder?
Dr. William “Bill” Thomas Snyder was a former chancellor of the University of Tennessee who passed away at the age of 93.
When did Dr. Snyder pass away?
Dr. Snyder passed away on Monday morning after a brief illness.
What contributions did Dr. Snyder make to the University of Tennessee?
Dr. Snyder was known for advocating for minority student enrollment, introducing the university to the internet age, and significantly raising funds for the school.
What was Dr. Snyder’s role in the Tennessee Theatre?
Dr. Snyder served as the house organist at the Tennessee Theatre and played the Mighty Wurlitzer organ for special movie screenings and concerts.
What awards did Dr. Snyder receive during his career?
In 1996, Dr. Snyder was named Chancellor of the Year by the African American Leadership Association.
What is planned to honor Dr. Snyder?
A celebration of life for Dr. Snyder is being planned by his family.
Key Features of Dr. Snyder’s Legacy
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Age at Passing | 93 years |
| Career Start | Early 1960s at the UT Space Institute |
| Chancellor Tenure | 1993-1999 |
| Fundraising Campaign | 21st Century Campaign raised $432 million |
| Recognition | Chancellor of the Year 1996 by African American Leadership Association |
| Theater Involvement | House organist at Tennessee Theatre |
| Publications | Over 50 publications in engineering |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Knox News Obituary
- WBIR News Article
- Knox News: Bill Snyder Passes Away
- Dignity Memorial Obituary
- Legacy.com Obituary
- Wikipedia: William Snyder
- Google Search: Bill Snyder University of Tennessee
- Google Scholar: William Snyder
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bill Snyder
- Google News: Bill Snyder
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
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