My Internship with the Catholic Cemeteries Association

Who knew how much one could learn in just 10 weeks during the summer! Heading into my first day of this internship, I did not know what to expect. When friends and family asked about my summer plans, I told them, “I’m working at Catholic Cemeteries Association.” Most people’s immediate response was to assume that I was landscaping or digging graves. And honestly, before the internship started, I did not know how to answer this other than by saying marketing for cemeteries. As a business economics major doing a marketing internship for a cemetery association, I knew it would be a learning experience. Although, my learning expectations were quickly surpassed as I began to learn valuable skills and knowledge immediately that continued throughout the summer that I am incredibly thankful for.

During my welcome meeting with my supervisor Paige Muttillo, I immediately realized something about marketing, and that is how vast and interconnected it is. Many people may think of marketing as just advertising and promoting products, but there is much more to it, especially in our industry. There is an interconnection of building a brand, staying consistent with that brand & audience, yet also trying to reach new audiences & be adaptive to the factors of the industry. These lessons were important to keep in my mind behind every social media post, email, research I’d be conducting, or conversation with other team members. Luckily, I had a great supervisor and group of co-workers there to help me, teach me useful knowledge & skills, and allow me to be involved in the overall team.

One of my favorite features of this internship was the different avenues every day could bring. One day could be filled with creating social media graphics for new podcast episodes. Other days could be spent writing blogs, organizing the bereavement bulletin, sending emails, researching, or learning the ins and outs of marketing. The majority of days were spent doing a mix of these activities, which was great for someone like me who enjoys the thrill of not knowing what the next day will be like. Every day I had a new opportunity to learn and be involved.

It was meaningful for me to see the value our work has on our customers. Everyone here at CCA truly emphasizes the importance of faith, family, trust, compassion, and hope. As someone who has lost an immediate family member and experienced grief in the past, it was a great reminder to me of how the CCA provides invaluable support and understanding during those challenging times, helping navigate the complexities of loss and healing.

I have to thank everyone I worked with in the office this summer, regardless of whether I worked with them directly or not. First of all, I have to thank my supervisor Paige for everything. From interviewing me, teaching me all about marketing, letting me be creative in my work, and caring about me and my future. To Joel, Justin, and Aaron, I appreciate you allowing me to listen and engage in weekly marketing meetings. This taught me valuable skills and the importance of consistency and being a mindful decision-maker. I also appreciate everyone, especially Paige and Carlos, who brought energy and enthusiasm daily to the office. As someone who came from working in a restaurant for six years, office life was new; therefore, that energy was helpful. I could not forget Barb & Kathy for unlocking the front door for me and for making a fresh pot of coffee each morning. Overall, I’d like to thank everyone I encountered this summer at CCA who allowed me this opportunity, guided me, and taught me hundreds of lessons and skills I will carry on forever.

Written By: Jack Kelly | Marketing Intern | Catholic Cemeteries Association