Simmons named executive director at Albany Diocesan Cemeteries

Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger has announced the appointment of Emily Simmons as executive director of Albany Diocesan Cemeteries (ADC), effective Feb. 21. Simmons had been interim executive director since September 2021. She joined ADC in December 2020 as director of sales.

“Under Emily’s leadership these past five months, the ADC team managed the acquisition of Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Rensselaer, implemented a customer experience program, and continued the process of building two new mausoleums,” Bishop Scharfenberger said. “With her experience, I am confident Emily will lead our cemeteries with compassion, empathy, and understanding.”

Simmons is a member of the Catholic Cemetery Conference, the New York State Association of Cemeteries, and the International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association.

“It is a privilege to lead the team and help bring to fruition the thoughts and ideas of our experienced cemetarians,” Simmons said. “Ours is a ministry of consolation and I am committed to continuing to uphold the high standards that provide families who come to us with a sense of consolation and peace.”

A resident of Clifton Park, Simmons earned a bachelor's in public communications with a minor in religious studies at The College of St. Rose. She has worked at the New York State Economic Development Council as director of Programs & Strategic Partnerships, Mazzone Hospitality as director of Sales, and the Italian American Community Center in Albany as general manager.

Albany Diocesan Cemeteries manages 20 Catholic cemeteries in the New York Capital District.