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Shingletown Today
By the People, for the People
In-N-Out Burger Owner Shares Faith-Driven Leadership at Pepperdine
Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson explores the intersection of business, purpose, and philanthropy at President's Speaker Series
Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:34pm
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The quality and care that has made In-N-Out a beloved California icon for generations.Shingletown TodayLynsi Snyder-Ellingson, president and owner of the iconic In-N-Out Burger chain, spoke at Pepperdine University's President's Speaker Series, sharing how her Christian faith has shaped her approach to leadership and the company's commitment to quality, community, and philanthropy.
Why it matters
Snyder-Ellingson's story provides a rare glimpse into the values and principles guiding one of California's most beloved brands, highlighting the power of purpose-driven leadership and the role faith can play in business success.
The details
During the event, Snyder-Ellingson reflected on her journey leading In-N-Out, from growing up 'in the family' to navigating the company's intentional growth and intense scrutiny. She emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy and nonnegotiable traits established by her grandparents, including an unwavering commitment to quality and a focus on human connection over automation.
- Snyder-Ellingson spoke at the Pepperdine University President's Speaker Series on March 31, 2026.
- In 2004, Snyder-Ellingson had a pivotal faith experience after watching the film 'The Passion of the Christ'.
The players
Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson
The president and owner of the In-N-Out Burger chain, who shared her faith-driven approach to leadership and the company's commitment to quality, community, and philanthropy.
Jim Gash
The president of Pepperdine University, who introduced Snyder-Ellingson and framed the event as an exploration of purpose-driven leadership.
George Pepperdine
The founder of Pepperdine University, whose legacy of integrity and faith-based leadership was drawn as a parallel to Snyder-Ellingson's approach.
What they’re saying
“Our guest tonight embodies that kind of leadership, a leader who has led with integrity and faith through real seasons of difficulty, and who has chosen to use her platform to lead with a purpose that transcends enterprise.”
— Jim Gash, President, Pepperdine University
“When we humble ourselves and truly seek to make things better for others—to pave the way and lift them up—there's going to be more commitment, more loyalty.”
— Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson, President and Owner, In-N-Out Burger
“Part of what makes In‑N‑Out and the experience so special is the interaction and the customer service that we're able to give; the smile, the greeting, you know, just that warmth and feeling, that culture.”
— Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson, President and Owner, In-N-Out Burger
What’s next
The full broadcast of Snyder-Ellingson's conversation and previous events in the President's Speaker series are available to watch on PeppLearn.
The takeaway
Snyder-Ellingson's story highlights the power of purpose-driven leadership and the role faith can play in shaping a company's values, culture, and commitment to serving its community. Her unwavering dedication to preserving In-N-Out's legacy and human connection demonstrates how businesses can thrive by prioritizing people over profits.