OGR Future Leaders Forum Inspires the Next Generation of Funeral Professionals

OGR Future Leaders Forum Inspires the Next Generation of Funeral Professionals

Attendees gained fresh insights and connections at OGR’s program for emerging leaders 

INDIANAPOLIS (September 4, 2025) – The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) proudly announces the success of its recent Future Leaders Forum, presented by Full-Circle Aftercare, held August 25-27, 2025, at the Karrer-Simpson Funeral Home, an affiliate location of Pollock-Randall Funeral Home in Port Huron, Michigan.

The Forum is designed to nurture and develop the next generation of leaders in the funeral service profession. Over the course of a two-day program, the event gathered young professionals, first and second-career individuals and emerging leaders from across the United States for engaging education, problem-solving exercises and strategic discussions.

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“We are consistently impressed by the energy and excitement that Future Leaders bring to OGR,” said Wendy King, Executive Director of OGR. “We are proud to provide a space where emerging funeral professionals can connect, learn, and grow together. Events like this ensure that the profession continues to thrive with fresh ideas and strong leadership for years to come.”

As part of this year’s theme, the 2025 Forum empowered future leaders to “Own the Future,” with dynamic education opportunities, hands-on workshops, expert-led sessions and real-world scenarios. Education sessions covered a wide range of topics relevant to developing funeral directors. Some of the themes in event discussions included generational divide in the workplace, making informed preneed decisions, financial insight, personalized funeral services and the power of moments. Outside of education sessions, attendees also had the opportunity to explore the Port Huron community, taking in the beautiful lakes and lighthouses of the area. 

OGR is grateful for the continued support and partnership with the sponsors of this year’s event, which includes presenting sponsor Full-Circle Aftercare, Express Funeral Funding, Passages International and Johnson Consulting Group. 

“It was inspiring to see the passionate future leaders of funeral service come together,” said Vincent Roberge, Johnson Consulting Group. “We’re honored to have played a part in supporting their growth and are excited about the impact they’ll have moving forward.”

The Future Leaders Forum will return in 2026, but OGR Future Leaders remain active throughout the year. For more information on how both OGR member and non-member funeral homes can get involved, visit www.OGR.org/future-leaders-forum. 

About the International Order of the Golden Rule

The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) is an association of independently owned and operated funeral homes dedicated to ethical service to all. Founded in 1928, it is our mission to make independent funeral homes exceptional. We do this by building and supporting member interaction, information exchange and professional business development through a wide range of programs, services and resources. For more information, visit www.ogr.org.