Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum is proud to announce that President and CEO Sherry Smith has been named one of the St. Louis Business Journal’s Most Influential Business Women for 2026!
Honorees are selected through an independent review process recognizing women who make significant contributions to their organizations and the broader St. Louis community.
A Decade of Dedicated Leadership
Over her decade of servant leadership at Bellefontaine, Sherry has guided the 314-acre historic site through major multi-year preservation initiatives. Under her direction, Bellefontaine has:
Preserved St. Louis History: Spearheaded extensive historic preservation projects and archival cataloging that protect the documented stories of interred residents forever.
Achieved Global Recognition: Led the effort for the Arboretum to achieve Level III Arboretum status—the first in Missouri and one of only 53 in the world.
Expanded Community Education & Arts: Enhanced public outreach through historic tours, wildlife experiences, documentary films, concerts under the stars, and an Artist-in-Residence program.
In Her Own Words
When asked by the Business Journal about what inspires her career and life, Sherry shared:
"It is an honor to receive recognition in a community that is full of incredible organizations with outstanding leaders."
Please join the entire team, Board of Trustees, and community in congratulating Sherry on this well-deserved recognition!