Ashlynn Rickord Werner

“One of my most fulfilling career experiences was serving as the director of cemeteries for the City of Providence, Rhode Island. Working in a historic cemetery, advancing education, and fostering community engagement gave me a deep sense of purpose. It was rewarding to connect people with the rich history around them and help reshape how cemeteries are perceived and utilized. At PlotBox, I’ve had the privilege of using that experience to support cemeteries across the Americas. Helping organizations optimize their operations to better serve their families has been incredibly rewarding. Beyond my day-to-day work, I also travel and lecture on cemetery tourism, allowing me to influence and educate an even broader network. The most fulfilling part of my career is the ability to share my knowledge and passion while making a tangible impact in this field.”

“Beyond the rigorous curriculum that challenged me to think in new ways, my broader experience at Carthage prepared me for my career’s dynamic nature. I was deeply involved in the campus community — leading honors fraternities, participating in multiple clubs, being a sister of Alpha Chi Omega, and holding numerous on-campus jobs. Balancing these commitments taught me how to manage competing responsibilities effectively while sharpening essential skills in event planning, marketing, communications, strategic planning, and people management. These experiences allowed me to adapt, lead, and think strategically — crucial skills that have been invaluable throughout my career in deathcare, customer success, and cemetery tourism. Carthage gave me the knowledge, hands-on experience, and confidence to thrive in complex, multifaceted roles.”

“One of the most challenging moments of my career came just a year into my role as director of cemeteries when COVID-19 struck. Suddenly, public gatherings were restricted, including funerals and burial services, leaving grieving families in an unimaginable situation. It was a daunting and heartbreaking time. I had to rely heavily on the critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills I developed at Carthage. Balancing the safety of employees and guests with the need to honor those who had passed required me to approach problems from multiple angles, adapt quickly, and make difficult decisions with compassion. I had to communicate effectively with grieving families, guiding them through new protocols while ensuring they still had meaningful ways to say goodbye. The liberal arts foundation I gained at Carthage — particularly the ability to think critically, communicate clearly, and navigate complex challenges — was instrumental in helping me lead through that crisis with sensitivity and strategic decision-making.”

“From the moment I arrived, I fell in love with the campus, the community, and the countless opportunities it offered. The close-knit environment, engaging academics, and vibrant student life allowed me to grow in ways I never expected. Carthage gave me the experiences, skills, and connections that have shaped my career and personal journey. I’m incredibly grateful for that.”

“Carthage opened the door to countless opportunities that have shaped my personal and professional life. I built lasting connections and friendships through my involvement in academic and social fraternities, including meeting my husband. More than that, my time at Carthage set me on the path to my career. On the advice of Professor Sandra Bisciglia, I applied to Harvard Divinity School, where I earned my Master of Theological Studies. That experience allowed me to research mental health and disability studies, a passion of mine, which ultimately led me into the cemetery and deathcare space. The opportunities, mentorship, and experiences at Carthage shaped my career trajectory, and I’m incredibly grateful for that foundation.”

“Two professors who profoundly impacted my success were professors Sandra Bisciglia and Tom Noer. Prof. Bisciglia encouraged me to pursue my master’s degree in religious studies, a decision that ultimately shaped my career path. Prof. Noer, on the other hand, nurtured my love for history and remained a trusted mentor and friend long after I graduated. My relationship with Prof. Noer extended well beyond the classroom. We stayed in touch regularly, exchanging in emails until just weeks before his passing. Whenever I returned to Illinois for the holidays, I made it a point to see him in Kenosha. He was always there to offer advice, support, and encouragement. We discussed life, history, and our shared admiration for Frank Lloyd Wright. He attended my wedding and was one of the first people to learn of my daughter’s birth. His unwavering support and friendship meant the world to me, and he is deeply missed.”

“Carthage’s mission has deeply influenced both my personal and professional life. The critical thinking and research skills I developed at Carthage taught me the importance of seeking truth, ensuring that my decisions and conclusions are grounded in fact. Strength comes from refining our convictions and using them to make a meaningful impact on the world around us. I live these values daily, both in my career and community. In my work, I strive to support individuals during one of the most difficult moments of their lives, create positive change in the broader deathcare community, and help people come to terms with death in a way that makes it feel less daunting. I give back through community action and by supporting local animal shelters, which is another passion of mine. Carthage instilled in me the drive to think critically, stand by my values, and serve others, and those lessons continue to shape who I am today.”

“Some of my favorite Carthage memories revolve around the incredible people I met and our shared experiences. Whether it was spending time with friends from the history or religion departments, Greek life, or various clubs, I loved being surrounded by such a diverse and supportive community. Late nights in the library or Student Union studying with friends, exploring Kenosha, and simply enjoying the college experience all shaped who I am today.”

“Embrace your time at Carthage — it’s more than just an education; it’s a microcosm of the wider world you’ll step into after graduation. Take every opportunity to gain new skills, get involved, and push yourself outside your comfort zone. Your experiences will shape your future in ways you may not even realize yet. But just as importantly, remember to have fun. College is a unique and exciting time in your life, and it can be one of the greatest experiences if you allow it to be. So, work hard, build lasting connections, and make the most of every moment!”

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