Devinne Melecki, MPP '22, recently published an article in Smithsonian Magazine titled "Cemeteries That Save the American Landscape." In the article, Melecki weaves her personal experiences into an exploration of the cultural history of the American cemetery, from the early 19th century when "rural cemeteries" became the inspiration for public green spaces like NY's Central Park to the birth of the for-profit funeral industry after the Civil War, and even the evolution of how we think about death itself. The piece explores our connection to the earth in life and death and the potential for environmental sustainability and conservation that our end-of-life choices provide.
Melecki also received a Graduate Certificate in Public History from UMass Amherst ('22). She is the Program and Events Manager at The Better Angels Society, a non-profit that supports American history documentary filmmakers in promoting civic engagement and education. She is interested in utilizing historical stories to inform present-day decision-making that is more sustainable and equitable.