Recognized by our readers as a Latina of Impact, Diane Schnell is a lifelong Kenner resident, mother, and public servant. Born to Honduran parents, Schnell has dedicated her career to service, including a background in media focused on informing residents and strengthening communication and working on the Jefferson Parish School Board. Currently, she is focused on her historic run as the first Latina to seek the office of Mayor of Kenner.
Learn more about Diane Schnell with the following Q&A session.
You are the first Latina to run for Mayor in the City of Kenner. What does this milestone mean to you personally, and how do you believe your unique perspective benefits the entire Kenner community?
In 2026, we’re seeing women step forward everywhere — mujeres en poder — not for
recognition, but to serve, lead, and listen. I’m proud to be part of that moment, and I carry it with humility.
My perspective comes from a lifelong relationship with Kenner. Born and raised here, I
understand the deep roots of this city and the cultures shaping its future. As the daughter of
Honduran parents, raising my children here, and living in this community every day, I see
Kenner as one city, not separate groups.
I’ve experienced Kenner as a kid, a student, a mother, a neighbor, a community leader, a
journalist, a former school board member, and a former business owner. That shapes how I lead. When one neighborhood struggles, we all feel it. When one family succeeds, we all move
forward. That perspective strengthens how we build trust, support small businesses, and grow our economy. It allows us to connect locally and internationally, create partnerships, and position Kenner as a city that understands its people while competing for the future.
Please tell us about your previous jobs and how these experiences have prepared you for
the executive responsibilities of the Mayor’s office.
My professional background centers on media, public service, and community engagement — all critical to executive leadership.
As a school board member, I worked in governance, budgeting, and oversight, making decisions
that affected thousands of families. That experience prepared me to manage public resources,
working alongside other elected officials.
As a journalist, I listened to residents, parents, students, and business owners every day. I learned how to gather facts, understand different perspectives, and communicate clearly.
I’ve also worked alongside families, organizations, and local leaders to build partnerships and
move initiatives forward. The Mayor’s job is about managing people, priorities, and services —
and my experience has prepared me to lead with listening, transparency, and results.
What are your top three priorities for revitalizing Kenner’s local economy and supporting
small businesses?
First, fix the basics that impact economic growth — cleaner streets, reliable trash service,
improved drainage, fair bidding processes, and a city that is well-maintained and business-ready
Second, support small businesses by improving communication and making it easier to open and grow in Kenner.
Third, attract investment while revitalizing key projects and bringing new life back to our
Esplanade Mall. Kenner has so much potential with the right leader.
We are also uniquely positioned to connect regionally and internationally. By expanding tourism, partnerships, and investment, we can bring new revenue into our city and create sustainable economic growth.
You have expressed concerns regarding the “chaos” in the city and specific policies like
the 287(g) program. How do you plan to balance effective law enforcement with the need
to build trust within Kenner’s diverse neighborhoods?
Public safety and community trust must work together. I fully support law enforcement, and as Mayor I will work closely with our Police Chief to prioritize violent crime, protect victims, and ensure residents feel safe reporting issues. All while increasing transparency around policies and improving communication between the department and neighborhoods. We need to invest in youth programs, mental health resources, and partnerships with schools and community organizations.
The goal is simple: a city where residents feel safe and have confidence in their police
Department.
You’ve mentioned that minority communities need a “seat at the table” in the decisionmaking process. What specific steps would you take to ensure that City Hall is more
accessible and transparent for all constituents?
The Mayor and City Hall should be accessible to everyone at all times. A meaningful
way to make that happen means holding regular town halls across neighborhoods, breaking down language barriers, and making it easier for residents to contact departments and receive timely responses. I will also create advisory groups and partnerships with neighborhood leaders, parents, and small businesses. Transparency is KEY.
Kenner faces unique challenges, from hurricane preparedness to economic fluctuations.
Can you share an example of a time you successfully navigated a crisis or a complex
organizational challenge?
Working in news, I’ve been on the ground during hurricanes and emergencies, helping families
understand evacuation routes, translating updates, and delivering accurate information through
television and social media. I’ve practiced crisis leadership in real time — focused on safety, clarity, and keeping the public informed. As Mayor, I will make city communication more accessible and user-friendly for everyone, ensuring residents receive clear, timely information — in all the languages spoken by the families we serve — before, during, and after emergencies.
For a voter who is still undecided, what is the single most important thing they should
know about why you are the best choice to lead Kenner into its next chapter?
This campaign is not about politics — it’s about leadership that is present and accessible.
I was born and raised in Kenner, I’m still raising a family here, and my career has been built
around listening to people and serving.
I will be a hands-on mayor, present every day, focused on safer neighborhoods, stronger
infrastructure, economic growth, and a city government that works.
Kenner’s next chapter requires leadership that knows the community, brings people together, and produces results — and that is exactly how I intend to serve.
