Richard J. Moylan, who has served as president of Green-Wood Cemetery since 1986, will retire in 2025.
Over his nearly 40-year tenure, Moylan transformed the historic Brooklyn cemetery into a cultural and educational destination, while preserving its significance as a sacred burial ground, according to a press release.
Moylan, who began his career at Green-Wood as a grass cutter while attending New York Law School, rose through the ranks, holding nearly every position before becoming president. Under his leadership, Green-Wood was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2006, recognizing its historical and architectural importance.
“I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished at Green-Wood,” Moylan said. “Our cemetery is not just a place of memorialization but also a hub for art, history and nature.”
During Moylan’s presidency, Green-Wood expanded its programming to include public tours, concerts, art installations and environmental education. The cemetery now welcomes over 450,000 visitors annually and serves more than 40,000 people through various programs.
Moylan has championed sustainability, introducing green burials and enhancing the cemetery’s environmental initiatives. Under his guidance, Green-Wood’s arboretum achieved the second highest level of accreditation worldwide, and climate resilience has become a central focus.
Peter W. Davidson, chairman of Green-Wood’s Board of Trustees, praised Moylan’s legacy.
“Richard has not only preserved Green-Wood’s history but has expanded its reach in ways we never imagined,” he said. “His leadership will inspire us for generations.”
The search for Moylan’s successor will be conducted by PBR Executive Search, with input from a transition committee led by the Board of Trustees.
