Shelley Baker Promoted to Executive Director
Ferncliff Cemetery & Arboretum is pleased to announce the promotion of Shelley Baker to the role of Executive Director effective January 2023. Ms. Baker previously held the title of Director of Family Services and Marketing at Ferncliff since 2018.
Shelley Baker Ferncliff Executive Director Shelley Baker, Executive Director of Ferncliff Cemetery & Arboretum In her new role, Ms. Baker will have all management and operating responsibilities of the organization, and will report directly to Ferncliff’s Board of Trustees.
Ms. Baker has a breadth of experience in death care management, business development and marketing. She is a funeral director licensed by The State of Ohio Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors, and a former crematory operator. Ms. Baker received her Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Wright State University.
Ms. Baker succeeds Darrell Kitchen, who most recently served as Executive Director at Ferncliff. Mr. Kitchen will continue working on special Board assignments for a portion of the year with plans to retire in late 2023. He will continue as the Board’s assistant secretary.
“I could not be more pleased,” said Mr. Kitchen of his successor. “Shelley’s appointment as Executive Director of the Ferncliff organization marks an exciting and important time for the Ferncliff community. Shelley is a professional who has prepared herself through education and experience, with a proven emphasis on service to our community. She is eager to proceed with her new challenges and I am equally eager to watch and enjoy her future successes,” he said.
As Executive Director, Ms. Baker intends to nurture relationships internally with Ferncliff team members first and foremost. “I will strive to inspire our Ferncliff staff to improve at the things we value as an organization and challenge them to serve in such a way that Ferncliff will be known by our consistent superior excellence,” said Ms. Baker. “I also look forward to cultivating relationships with community organizations and partnering in ways to share the beauty of Ferncliff with the residents of Clark County,” she said.
“Ferncliff is so much more than a final resting place for the dear departed. Rich in history, Ferncliff offers a peaceful retreat for visitors. Miles of hilly roads wind throughout the natural beauty, accompanied by over 100 varying species of trees. Visitors are encouraged to come to Ferncliff for a walk or self guided tour, take a jog, a bike ride or to attend one of our special events,” added Ms. Baker.
When she is not at Ferncliff, Ms. Baker enjoys time with family, cooking, entertaining or enjoying the outdoors with her husband, Jeff, and their chocolate lab, Daisy.
