Our Team
Frederick first experienced death when his mother passed away from skin cancer in 2008. She was cremated — and as a lifelong environmental advocate, Frederick spent years sitting with the weight of that choice, knowing the environmental cost and wishing he had been able to choose differently.
When New York signed natural organic reduction into law in 2022, Frederick saw an opportunity to build something meaningful. Drawing on his experience managing sustainability programs, he founded Renewed Roots to bring human composting to New York State—so every New Yorker can make a final choice that reflects their values.
Frederick is a New Yorker on a mission to make natural organic reduction accessible, normalized, and available to all.
Frederick Zindell, Founder & CEO
Stephanie first thought about the death care industry when her brother died. He was cremated, but a nonprofit that supports families with sick children planted a tree in his memory at the hospital where he was diagnosed. Although her family lived states away, they returned to visit it every year. The tree became a living memory, something they could watch grow over the years in a way her brother never could.
Stephanie met Frederick Zindell while they were both earning their MBAs at Syracuse University. When he approached her about joining Renewed Roots, she was glad to co-found the nonprofit and help give families more options at the end of life.
As more states legalize natural organic reduction, Stephanie sees a chance to give more families what hers found in that tree: a memorial that keeps growing.
Stephanie Edmonds, Co-Founder & Chief Policy Officer
Jennifer was drawn to Renewed Roots by its commitment to helping families navigate loss in a way that feels personal, meaningful, and environmentally responsible. She believes that even during life's most difficult moments, people should have choices that reflect their values and the legacy they hope to leave behind.
Jennifer met Frederick and Stephanie while they were all in Syracuse University's MBA program. As Chief Development Officer, she supports strategic initiatives and business development efforts as the organization works to make natural organic reduction more accessible throughout New York. She is proud to be part of a team creating a more compassionate and sustainable end-of-life option for future generations.