|
|
Meet Your Board Member
A Q&A with ICFA Board Member Thomas P. Daly, CCE
President
Italian Catholic Cemetery Association
St. Michael Cemetery
Boston, Massachusetts
Why did you choose to work in the cemetery and funeral service industry?
I started out in the hospitality industry, with Sonesta Hotels and then as an account executive with 3M National Advertising. I always enjoyed meeting and helping people, but travel was hard on my young family.
During those years I used to help out part-time with special projects for the Italian Catholic Cemetery Association. One day I was asked to consider being the cemetery superintendent for St. Michael Cemetery. Now, more than 20 years later, it turns out to have been the best career choice.
What is the best experience you've ever had in your job?
Working with the trustees in the vision and creation of a new cemetery for St. Michael, and working toward its completion.
Part of the excitement was the design and construction of our new multi-use building that houses our administration office, chapel, public area and a unique community mausoleum and columbarium.
What is the worst, and what did you learn from it?
The worst experience was the sudden death of my dad. I was in my first full year at the cemetery and I learned firsthand the grief and pain of the loss of a family member. Even today, I remember the confusion in helping my mom handle arrangements. The lesson I learned was the importance of making these decisions while living.
What do you see as the biggest benefits of ICFA membership?
Membership in the ICFA has offered me many benefits, from the sharing of know-ledge and information, the networking with fellow professionals to the friendships I have made. The biggest benefit of our membership is having the opportunity to learn from and ask questions of fellow professionals firsthand. Our cemeteries benefit from the educational programs that are offered and the timely information we receive on legislative and industry concerns. Our association is made up of caring and dedicated people, and that alone is a great benefit to be a part of.
Why did you wish to serve on the ICFA board?
I have always enjoyed being involved and helping others when I could. I had the pleasure of serving as president of both the New England Cemetery Association and the Massachusetts Cemetery Association. I continue to serve as chairman of law and legislation for those associations. Being elected to serve on the ICFA board gave me an opportunity to be active, continue to learn, serve others and offer a New England voice on a national level.
What is the biggest challenge facing the industry, and how is ICFA addressing it?
The biggest challenge we face can be said in one word -- "communications." We must always continue to communicate and educate all about our industry, who we are and who we serve. We as individuals can offer information on a local level, but the voice of the ICFA and our industry leaders is the key on a national level.
What are your outside interests?
I have always enjoyed the outdoors, where I could ski, camp or try to play golf. I have stayed active in the first two, as a high school ski coach and as scoutmaster for our local Boy Scout troop.
Who are your heroes/role models?
My heroes are the men and women who everyday, in our cemeteries, care for the dead and help family members. They are the true guardians and professionals.
If you could "do lunch" with anyone in the world, living or dead, whom would you choose and why?
Lunch would be with my dad and my children. My dad was a quiet man who was caring and treated all with respect. I have realized today how important that is, and would love the opportunity to thank him. I'd also like a chance for my son and daughter to get to know him better.
Copyright ICFA 2001
|
|
