Richard Sneed facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Richard Sneed
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| Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians | |
| In office May 26, 2017 – October 2, 2023 |
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| Preceded by | Patrick Lambert |
| Succeeded by | Michell Hicks |
| Personal details | |
| Born | December 20, 1967 |
| Nationality | Eastern Band Cherokee, American |
| Spouses |
Trina Sneed
(divorced)
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| Parents | Richard and Patricia Sneed |
| Education |
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| Occupation | |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service | United States Marine Corps |
Richard G. Sneed (born December 20, 1967) is a Cherokee leader. He served as the 28th Principal Chief of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This is a very important role for the Cherokee people.
Sneed became Principal Chief in May 2017. He took over after the previous chief, Patrick Lambert, was removed from office. This was a rare event in the tribe's history. Sneed was later re-elected for a full term in 2019. He served until October 2023.
Richard Sneed's Early Life and Education
Richard Sneed grew up in the Wolfetown Community. This area is part of the Qualla Boundary. The Qualla Boundary is the land owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
He went to Cherokee High School in Cherokee, North Carolina. After high school, Sneed joined the United States Marine Corps. He served his country as a Marine.
After his military service, Sneed continued his education. He studied at Universal Technical Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. He also attended Southwestern Community College in Sylva, North Carolina.
Richard Sneed became a teacher. He taught vocational classes at Cherokee High School. These classes teach students practical skills. He was even named National Classroom Teacher of the Year. This award came from the National Indian Education Association. Sneed also served as a pastor at a church in Cherokee. He raised five children.
Richard Sneed's Political Journey
Richard Sneed started his journey as a tribal leader in 2015. He was elected as the Principal Vice-Chief. This role is like a second-in-command. He took office in October 2015.
In May 2017, Sneed became the Principal Chief. The previous chief, Patrick Lambert, was removed from his position. This meant Sneed stepped up to lead the tribe. After Sneed became Chief, Alan B. Ensley took over as Principal Vice-Chief.
Sneed spoke about the need for "healing" in the community. He wanted everyone to come together after the change in leadership. In 2019, the people re-elected him as Principal Chief for a full term. This showed their trust in his leadership.
During his time as Chief, Sneed worked on many important issues for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. He focused on the well-being of his people. In 2023, he ran for re-election but lost to former Chief Michell Hicks.
Images for kids
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Richard Sneed signing an agreement.
