Activating Cemeteries for Community and Environmental Wellness

Panel Dialogue

This panel dialogue will discuss the transformative potential of cemeteries, recognizing them as dynamic community assets that contribute to environmental wellness and community engagement. 

Speakers will highlight the potential of cemeteries as vital open spaces within urban landscapes, comprising approximately 140,000 acres across the U.S. They will delve into evolving attitudes towards death, mourning, and commemoration, showcasing how cemeteries have transformed into multifaceted spaces serving as museums, libraries, arboretums, nature sanctuaries, and venues for active and passive recreation.

Speakers

Nancy Goldenberg

President & CEO, Laurel Hill

Kim McKnight

Program Manager, Historic Preservation and Tourism Program, Austin Parks and Recreation Department

Katrina Spade

Founder and CEO, Recompose