Groover Snell promoted to executive director at Fort Walla Walla Museum
By Dan Thesman on Thursday, September 17th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
WALLA WALLA — Groover Snell, the operations manager at Fort Walla Walla Museum, has been named its next executive director, succeeding long-time leader James Payne, the museum’s board of directors announced.
Snell’s appointment was made effective immediately following a special board meeting on Sept. 2. The decision capped a nationwide search launched in April after Payne announced his plans to retire at the end of 2026, ending a 30-year tenure at the helm.
A Walla Walla native, Snell started at the museum ten years ago as an intern. He returned as executive assistant in 2019 before taking over as operations manager in 2021. During his time at the museum, Snell led the creation of a National Endowment for the Humanities-funded multimedia tour, conducted oral history interviews, and served as project manager for the Blue Mountain Locomotive capital project.
“The museum’s work is about connecting people, strengthening community, and sparking a passion for history,” Snell said in a statement. “At its core, history is about other people, and the museum is where we remember that.”
Snell holds degrees in history and biology from Whitman College and a master’s degree in history from Arizona State University, along with a certificate in nonprofit management from the University of Washington.
Board Chair Anne Haley praised Payne’s legacy of fiscal stability and creative leadership while expressing confidence in the institution’s future.
“Fort Walla Walla Museum belongs to our community, and I look forward to working with staff, volunteers, and supporters to expand the museum’s capabilities,” Snell added.
Photo of Groover Snell courtesy Fort Walla Walla Museum
