CANA appoints New Executive Director

CANA appoints Barbara Kemmis as Executive Director

Wheeling, IL, October 3, 2011--The Board of Directors of the Cremation

Association of North American (CANA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Barbara Kemmis as Executive Director effective October 17, 2011.

Kemmis brings over 15 years of experience developing and marketing member benefits, providing leadership in professional associations, fundraising and creating professional development opportunities. Most recently the Director of Member Services at the American Theological Library Association, Chicago, IL, she previously served as Vice President of Library and Nonprofit Services at the Donors Forum, Chicago, IL. Kemmis has a master’s degree in library science from Dominican University, a graduate certificate in nonprofit management from North Park University and a B.A. from Earlham College.

"CANA leads the industry in networking and professional development through educational seminars and workshops, government regulatory updates, in publications and other information sources. I am thrilled to join the association at this historic moment and look forward to meeting CANA members at the annual convention in Chicago,” Kemmis stated. This appointment marks the transition from outside management to a stand -alone organization.

"CANA members will be well served by the new opportunities this leadership change brings.The CANA board has been working toward this transition for more than three years and we look forward to working with Ms. Kemmis to ensure CANA remains a trusted resource for its members and the industry," offered Mark Matthews, CANA Board President.

About CANA

Founded in 1913, the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) is an International organization of over 1,500 members, composed of cremationists, funeral directors, funeral home operators and owners, cemeterians, industry suppliers and consultants. CANA members believe that cremation is preparation for memorialization. For more information