ICCFA Leadership Summit 2025 Empowers Deathcare Professionals to “Reimagine, Reinvent, Redefine”

STERLING, Va. (November 17, 2025) – The International Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association (ICCFA) concluded its 2025 Leadership Summit in Knoxville, Tennessee, where deathcare leaders gathered to explore the theme “Reimagine, Reinvent, Redefine.” Held October 21–23, the Summit offered an immersive educational and networking experience that challenged professionals to think differently about the future of deathcare.

This year’s event welcomed 124 total registrants, bringing together a diverse group of professionals representing every facet of the cemetery, cremation, and funeral service profession. The Summit also provided a special opportunity for members of the inaugural class of ICCFA’s 40 Under 40 Award, who attended through educational scholarships from the ICCFA Educational Foundation. These emerging leaders participated in educational sessions and networking events, connecting with deathcare veterans and peers as they continue shaping the future of deathcare leadership.

Hosted by Summit Co-Chairs Lori Bolton, CSE, CXE, and Dr. C. Lynn Gibson, DPHIL, CFSP, this year’s event combined hands-on, off-site learning with visionary presentations that encouraged attendees to embrace innovation, hospitality, and meaningful community engagement. Participants spent a day at Smith Life & Legacy in Maryville, Tennessee, where they experienced a symbolic “Funeral for the Traditional Funeral” and explored transformative approaches to serving modern families.

Educational highlights included sessions such as “Why Hospitality? Reimagining the Funeral Experience” with Lee Longino of Service Corporation International, “The Celebration Journey” with Brooke Heldman of Dignity Memorial, and “Cemeteries Are Dying” with Dr. Jason Troyer and Dr. C. Lynn Gibson, DPHIL, CFSP. Attendees also reimagined aftercare and cemetery engagement with presenters Jennifer Flaum of HeartLight Center and John Bolton, CCE, CCrE, CSE, CXE, of Park Lawn Corporation. The Summit concluded with the Irwin W. Shipper Government & Legislative Update, led by Christie Toson, CCE, and Poul Lemasters, Esq., which provided crucial updates on federal and state issues impacting the profession.

Networking and connection were at the heart of the event. While the annual ICCFA Golf Tournament was cancelled due to inclement weather, attendees still enjoyed memorable opportunities to connect—including a whiskey tasting and lunch at Company Distilling and evening receptions that fostered collaboration and community among peers from across the profession.

“Our goal with the Leadership Summit is to provide a space where creativity and collaboration meet,” said Nadira Baddeliyanage, ICCFA Executive Director. “This year’s hands-on approach reminded us that leadership isn’t just about management—it’s about vision, courage, and reimagining what’s possible for the families we serve.”

ICCFA President Bob Gordon, Jr., CCE, added, “The Summit in Knoxville proved that innovation and compassion can go hand in hand. Our attendees left inspired to redefine excellence in service, design, and care within their own organizations.”

The 2026 ICCFA Leadership Summit is scheduled to take place October 20–22, at The DeSoto in Savannah, Georgia. Next year’s program will continue to build on the theme of innovation and leadership with new speakers, interactive sessions, and engaging networking opportunities.

For more information, visit iccfa.com/fall.

Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, cremation, funeral, and memorialization profession. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home, and crematory industries, as well as supplier and related businesses worldwide.

Ray Frew, CCFE, Named Recipient of the 2026 ICCFA Educational Foundation Lasting Impact Award

Sterling, VA — November 12, 2025 — The International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) proudly announces that Ray Frew, CCFE, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 ICCFA Educational Foundation Lasting Impact Award. This distinguished honor will be presented during the President’s Banquet at the 2026 ICCFA Experience on April 29, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas.

Frew, the immediate past President and CEO of Green Hills Memorial Park and a past President of the ICCFA, has long been recognized as a visionary leader in the cemetery and funeral service profession. As a founder and early champion of the ICCFA Educational Foundation, he played a pivotal role in shaping its mission and ensuring that professionals across the industry have access to educational opportunities that enhance service, leadership, and compassion.

A Certified Cemetery and Funeral Executive (CCFE) and Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Frew’s career reflects integrity, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

“Ray’s vision and passion for education have shaped the very foundation of our profession,” said Gino Merendino, President of the ICCFA Educational Foundation. “He understood early on that by investing in education, we elevate not only individual professionals but the entire deathcare community. The opportunities he helped create continue to lift others up and ensure our profession grows stronger, more compassionate, and more capable every day.”

Beyond his professional contributions, Frew has devoted decades to community service in Torrance, California, where his leadership and generosity have left a lasting legacy. A Vietnam veteran, he has served on numerous civic and charitable boards, including the Red Cross Celebrity Golf Tournament, Torrance Symphony, and the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation. He is a past president of both the Del Amo Rotary Club and the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce and has chaired major fundraising initiatives for the Torrance-South Bay YMCA and the Little Company of Mary Community Health Foundation, together raising tens of millions of dollars for community development and healthcare.

Among his many civic achievements, Frew’s leadership with the Torrance-South Bay YMCA stands out as one of his most meaningful contributions. As Chair of the Building for Tomorrow Capital Development Program, he helped lead the organization’s most ambitious fundraising effort, which exceeded $4.6 million to build a state-of-the-art facility serving families across the South Bay. Through this role, Frew also played a pivotal part in forging a lasting partnership between the YMCA and the University of Southern California, creating programs to support military veterans and their families—a cause deeply personal to him as a proud Army and Vietnam veteran.

Through his work at Green Hills Memorial Park, Frew has also led one of California’s largest Memorial Day Observances for more than three decades, honoring veterans and first responders. His leadership and dedication have earned him numerous accolades, including the J. Walker Owens Outstanding Volunteer Award, the George Whittlesey Award for Business Advocacy, and the Service Above Self Award from the Torrance-South Bay YMCA. In 2005, Frew was further recognized with the Torrance Distinguished Citizen Award, presented to individuals whose achievements are “significant to the community and to the welfare of the general populace.” He has also received the Community Partnership Award from the Switzer Center, an organization serving at-risk youth, and is a Founding Board Member of both S.C.O.R.E. (Spinal Cord Organization for Regaining Excellence) and the South Bay Children’s Orchestra.

Reflecting on his lifetime of service, Frew shared, “Acts of service have always given me a deep sense of purpose and gratitude. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside so many incredible people who share a commitment to helping others. When we give our time and energy to lift others up, the rewards reach far beyond ourselves—they strengthen our entire community.”

The ICCFA Educational Foundation Lasting Impact Award honors individuals whose lifetime of service has made a profound and enduring contribution to the advancement of education, leadership, and professionalism in the cemetery, cremation, and funeral service profession. For more information about the ICCFA Educational Foundation and the 2026 ICCFA Experience, please visit www.iccfa.com

The ICCFA Educational Foundation is a 501(c)(3) entity, established to make education accessible to future leaders in the deathcare profession and thereby raise the standards of professionalism within the industry. To learn more about the work of the Foundation and upcoming educational opportunities, please visit iccfa.com/educational-foundation.  

Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all cemetery, cremation, funeral and memorialization segments. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home and crematory industries, supplier and related businesses worldwide. 

“Reimagine, Reinvent, Redefine”: ICCFA Announces 2025 Leadership Summit in Knoxville This October

STERLING, Va. (August 8, 2025) – The International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) is pleased to announce the upcoming 2025 ICCFA Leadership Summit, taking place October 21–23 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Smoky Mountains, this year’s event promises an immersive, off-site experience focused on transformation, community, and the future of deathcare.

The 2025 Summit embraces the theme “Reimagine, Reinvent, Redefine,” inviting leaders of all levels across the profession to take part in a bold exploration of what deathcare can become. Through hands-on education, peer connection, and experiential learning, the ICCFA Leadership Summit is not just a meeting—it’s a movement.

“Today’s families are asking for more, and this Summit is about equipping leaders to meet those needs with courage and creativity,” said ICCFA Executive Director Nadira Baddeliyanage. “From hospitality to aftercare to reimagining cemetery spaces, we’re challenging the status quo and inspiring action.”

“This is not your traditional hotel ballroom conference,” added Summit Co-Chair Lori Bolton, CSE, CXE. “We’re stepping into real-life spaces with real-life challenges and innovations. Attendees will leave Knoxville energized and ready to make meaningful changes in their own firms.”

The Summit kicks off Tuesday, October 21, with two unique networking excursions: a golf tournament at Egwani Farms and a whiskey tasting and lunch at Company Distilling. That evening, the Welcome Reception brings attendees together for relaxed networking and reconnection before the next day’s full educational experience.

On Wednesday, October 22, the spotlight turns to Smith Life & Legacy in nearby Maryville, Tennessee. The full-day off-site program—“Reimagining Funeral and Cemetery Service”—invites attendees to step inside a campus that’s actively redefining deathcare through design, culture, and experience.

The morning begins with immersive experiences, including a symbolic Funeral for the Traditional Funeral and a soulful Celebration of Life at the Pavilion led by Lacy Robinson (Johnson Consulting Group & Worsham Mortuary College). These moments set the tone for a transformative day of learning. Throughout the afternoon, attendees will dive into sessions like Why Hospitality? Reimagining the Funeral Experience with Lee Longino (SCI), where the shift toward customer-centered facility design will be explored, and The Celebration Journey with Brooke Heldman (Dignity Memorial), offering practical strategies for building trust and crafting meaningful events. Attendees will also hear from Christopher Griffiths (JST Architects) on how to convert funeral facilities into mixed-use properties, rethinking space and revenue models for the modern era.

The program continues at nearby Grandview Cemetery and Pavilion with a session titled Cemeteries Are Dying presented by Dr. Jason Troyer and co-chair Dr. C. Lynn Gibson, DPHIL, CFSP. The day then moves into rotating breakout experiences covering reimagined aftercare, legacy building, and innovative approaches to community engagement. A group reflection led by Gibson will bring the day’s education to a powerful close before the evening reception in downtown Knoxville.

“This Summit isn’t about talking about change—it’s about seeing it in action,” said Gibson. “The Smith campus is proof that innovation is possible, profitable, and deeply meaningful.”

On Thursday, October 23, the Summit wraps up with the Government & Legal Committee Meeting & Update, led by Christie Toson, CCE, and Poul Lemasters, Esq. In what has been one of the most active years for legislation affecting the profession, this session offers timely updates and space for critical discussion on both federal and state-level developments.

“This year’s Leadership Summit is an invitation to rethink what’s possible,” said ICCFA President Robert Gordon, Jr., CCE. “When we gather like this—on the ground, in real spaces, with bold ideas—the future comes into focus. We leave not just inspired but equipped.”

Registration is now open, with early bird rates available through September 19 and online registration closing October 15.

For more details and to register, visit iccfa.com/fall.

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Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, cremation, funeral, and memorialization profession. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home, and crematory industries, as well as supplier and related businesses worldwide.

ICCFA University 2025 Ignites Passion, Purpose, and Professional Growth in Deathcare

STERLING, Va. (August 6, 2025) – The International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of ICCFA University 2025, held July 18–23 at the Emory Conference Center Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia. The event welcomed 168 students from across the profession for an intensive week of education, inspiration, and personal growth.

Hosted annually, ICCFA University brings together deathcare professionals for a uniquely immersive educational experience unlike any other in the field. Students choose from nine colleges—including 21^st Century Services, Cremation Services, Hospitality & Customer Experience, Land Management & Grounds Operations, Leadership, Management & Administration, Technology, Sales & Marketing, Funeral Home Management, and the School of Graduate Studies—each offering expert-led instruction designed to challenge, engage, and elevate. College Deans and faculty members included some of the most respected educators and practitioners in the profession.

“This program continues to be one of the most meaningful and transformational experiences we offer,” said ICCFA Executive Director Nadira Baddeliyanage. “The diversity of curriculum, depth of faculty knowledge, and energy among students is unmatched. Our attendees don’t just gain skills—they gain lifelong mentors and colleagues.”

Classroom learning was only part of the impact. ICCFA University 2025 also fostered a powerful spirit of connection through evening events like Student Trivia Night and Sports Night and culminated in the University Graduation and Graduate Reception on July 22, celebrating both certificate recipients and those who completed their fourth college to officially become ICCFAU graduates.

Among the many highlights of the week was the graduation address delivered by valedictorian Sandra Goldman, who movingly captured the spirit of the University. “When we enrolled at ICCFA University, we expected education. What many of us did not expect was transformation,” she shared. “We thought we would fill our notebooks. Instead, we filled our hearts… We are not in the business of death. We are in the ministry of meaning.”

Sandra, who lives with metastatic breast cancer, offered a profound testimony of resilience and purpose. “Our work is not about what ends,” she told her fellow graduates. “It is about what remains. The story. The love. The meaning we leave behind.”

“Each year, I’m humbled to watch how this program helps shape the next generation of deathcare leaders,” said ICCFA University Chancellor Jeff Kidwiler, CCE, CSE. “From first-time students to seasoned professionals, everyone leaves here reenergized, refocused, and reconnected to the heart of what we do.”

“This event exemplifies the soul of our profession,” said ICCFA President Bob Gordon, Jr., CCE. “It’s one thing to teach skills; it’s another to cultivate excellence. ICCFA University continues to be a source of both.”

Planning is already underway for next year’s ICCFA University, which will return to the Emory Conference Center Hotel in Atlanta. ICCFA University 2026 will take place July 17–22, 2026.

For more information and updates, visit iccfa.com/university.

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Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, cremation, funeral, and memorialization profession. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home, and crematory industries, as well as supplier and related businesses worldwide.

ICCFA Educational Foundation Awards 97 Scholarships to 2025 ICCFA University Attendees

STERLING, Va. (June 4, 2025) – The International Cemetery, Cremation, & Funeral Association’s (ICCFA) Educational Foundation proudly announces the award of 97 scholarships, thanks to the generosity of donors who value educational opportunities for deathcare professionals. These scholarships will enable recipients to attend the 2025 ICCFA University at the Emory University Conference Center Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia, from July 18-23. Scholarship recipients, representing ICCFA members from 25 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, as well as Canada, China, Ecuador, El Salvador, and Jamaica, will have the opportunity to learn from deathcare innovators and experts. 

The following ICCFA members will be attending the 2025 ICCFA University on scholarship thanks to the generous contributions of our supporting donors:

1. John Blevins, Williams Funeral Home | Columbia, TN
2. Mark Bodicky, Global Atlantic Financial Group | Batesville, IN
3. Angela Bowling, Woodland Cemetery | Dayton, OH
4. Sharael Bowman, Vine On Angel Wings Crematory LLC | Dayton, OH
5. Anthony Bracy, Bracy Funeral Service Group/Collins Funeral Home | Camden, SC
6. Cassandra Bracy, Bracy Funeral Service Group/Collins Funeral Home | Camden, SC
7. Gydell Brooks, Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Cemetery | Bossier City, LA
8. Virginia “Jenni” Bryant, Smith Funeral & Cremation Service | Maryville, TN
9. James Burton, Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science/Webb Noonan Kidd SCI | Cincinnati, OH
10. Elizabeth Capetillo, Inglewood Park Cemetery | Inglewood, CA
11. Sandra Carlin, Cape Cod Community College | Plymouth, MA
12. Anthony Carpinello, R.I. Catholic Cemeteries Diocese of Providence | Cranston, RI
13. Nancy Chapa, Serenity Fields | Mission, TX
14. Denise Childress, Curlew Hills Memory Gardens | Palm Harbor, FL
15. Lauren Christakos, Arlington Memorial Gardens and Funeral Home | Cincinnati, OH
16. Gordon Chuck, Sam Isaacs & Son Funeral Home | Kingston, Jamaica
17. Carlos Culqui, Inglewood Park Cemetery | Inglewood, CA
18. Michelle D’Aquin, Garden of Memories Funeral Home and Cemetery | Metairie, LA
19. Brittany Davis, Funerals by T.S. Warden | Jacksonville, FL
20. Sarah Dawber | Buchanan Group Inc. | Indianapolis, IN
21. Mac Dempsey, Leaf Cremation | Kennesaw, GA
22. Tyler Dinkins, Leaf Cremation | Columbus, OH
23. Christina Fournier, John A Gentleman & Heritage Family | Omaha, NE
24. Jessica Fulford, Fountainhead Funeral Home – SCI | Palm Bay, FL
25. Lorena Garcia, Inglewood Park Cemetery | Inglewood, CA
26. Tony Gilmer, Ott & Lee Funeral Home/Lakeland Place Memorial Park | Brandon, MS
27. Sandra Goldman, Hebrew Cemetery Association of Greater Charlotte | Charlotte, NC
28. Daniel Gonzalez, Mt. Elliott Cemetery Association | Clinton Twp, MI
29. Jacquelin Grauert, Gethsemane Cemetery | Reading, PA
30. Michael Greene, Chapel of the Chimes Westland | Westland, MI
31. Gwen Gustafson, Forest Hills Cemetery | Boston, MA
32. David Gutierrez, Parques y Jardines de Cuscatlan | San Salvador, El Salvador
33. Larry Hawkins, Kilpatrick’s Rose-Neath Cemetery | Bossier City, LA
34. Cole Held, West Hills Memorial Park | Yakima, WA
35. Bailee Helton, Mt. Elliott Cemetery Association | Clinton Twp, MI
36. Brookle Hicks, Leaf Cremation | Kennesaw, GA
37. Shane Hinds, Carraige Services | Houston, TX
38. Shantelle Holts Joseph, Tidewater Community College/ Sid Roberts Funeral Home | Nacogdoches, TX
39. Aesha Humphrey, Marcom-Harvey Funeral Care | Kansas City, MO
40. Peter Johnson, Jefferson Memorial Cemetery and Funeral Home | Pittsburgh, PA
41. Benjamin Jones, Vineyard City | Vineyard City, UT
42. Marcus Julian, Mt. Elliott Cemetery Association | Clinton Twp, MI
43. Joelle Kerfoot, Heady-Radcliffe Funeral Home & Cremation Services | LaGrange, KY
44. Dan Kientzel, Service Corporation International / Dignity Memorial | Houston, TX
45. Jonathan Kind, Gethsemane Cemetery | Clinton Twp, MI
46. Ryan Kinder, AS Turner & Sons | Decatur, GA
47. Jun Li, Fu Shou Yuan International Group | Shanghai, China
48. Ashlie Lobeck, City of Hobbs | Hobbs, NM
49. Kevin Lowery, Greenlawn Funeral Homes, Crematory, and Monument Center | Springfield, MO
50. Lou Maldonado, City of Hobbs Parks and Open Space Department | Hobbs, NM
51. Lynn McClain, Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens, Funeral Home & Cremation Center | Nashville, TN
52. Andrew McIntosh, Mission Hills Memorial Chapel, Crematory and Gardens | Dowagiac, MI
53. Alexander Mcintosh, Mission Hills | Niles, MI
54. Marcelo Minatel, Gethsemane Cemetery | Curitiba, Puerto Rico
55. Victoria Monforte, Cherokee Memorial Park and Funeral Home | Lodi, CA
56. Alanna Navin, Restland Funeral Home & Memorial Park | Dallas, TX
57. Craig Nichols, Mountain View Cemetery | Rapid City, SD
58. Jonathan Nixon, R.I. Catholic Cemeteries Diocese of Providence | Cranston, RI
59. Aubrey O’Byrne, Compassionate Planning LLC | Reading, PA
60. Robert O’Gara, R.I. Catholic Cemeteries Diocese of Providence | Cranston, RI
61. Arlette O’Rourke, Sacred Grove | Saint Stephen, SC
62. Tamala Randolph, Last Responder Solutions LLC | Wellford, SC
63. Jennifer Rebollar, Roosevelt Memorial Park Cemetery | Gardena, CA
64. Melinda Redding, Baue Funeral Homes/St. Charles Memorial Gardens | St. Charles, TX
65. Jerri Reed-Taylor, Malcolm X College Mortuary Science Program | Chicago, IL
66. Chanin Ricketts, Garden of Memories Funeral Home & Cemetery & Myrtle Hill Memorial Park | Tampa, FL
67. Joe Romero, North Texas Funeral Homes | Hurst, TX
68. Ton SaeChao, Cherokee Memorial Park and Funeral Home | Lodi, CA
69. George Schramm, Vineyard City | Vineyard, UT
70. Taylor Scott, Leaf Cremation Georgia | Kennesaw, GA
71. Karen Scott, Malcolm X College/Wallace Broadview Funeral Home | Chicago, IL
72. Branden Seid, Resurrection Cemetery | Oklahoma City, OK
73. John Sennhenn Jr., Spring Grove, | Cincinnati, OH
74. Susan Short, Baue Funeral Homes | Saint Charles, MO
75. Ashlyn Smith, Greenlawn Funeral Home | Springfield, MO
76. Kemberly Soria, Gethsemane Cemetery | Reading, PA
77. Kadi Strednak, Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. | Pittsburgh, PA
78. Gail Stuart, The McDougald Funeral Home | Anderson, SC
79. Lindsey Stuffle, Cole and Garrett Funeral Home | Goodlettsville, TN
80. Arian Teran, Jardines De Manabí | Portoviejo, Manabi, Ecuador
81. Gabriela Teran, Jardines De Manabí | Durán, Guayas, Ecuador
82. Maria Lourdes Teran, Jardines de Manabí | Portoviejo, Manabí, Ecuador
83. Jamie Thomas, Thomas Consulting | Mooresville, IN
84. Brent Thomas, Thomas Consulting Group/Dead Ringers | Mooresville, IN
85. Veronica Van Hof, Baltimore Humane Society Memorial Park | Reisterstown, MD
86. MyEtta Vance, Eden Terrace Memorials, LLC | Jackson, MS
87. Vercell Vance, Eden Terrace Memorials, LLC | Jackson, MS
88. Heather Vandegejuchte, Roberts of Ocala | Ocala, FL
89. Jared Vincent, R.I. Catholic Cemeteries Diocese of Providence | Cranston, RI
90. Tyler Waud, Cairn Partners | Tualatin, OR
91. Kathi Wells, Global Atlantic Financial Group | Maitland, FL
92. Michael Welsh, Gary Diocesan Cemeteries | Hammond, IN
93. Tim Weston, Greenlawn Funeral Home North | Springfield, MO
94. Sarah Whitaker, webCemeteries | Kutztown, PA
95. Spencer Wilson, Biondan | Toronto, Ontario, Canada
96. Calvin Witcher, Inglewood Park Cemetery | Inglewood, CA
97. Jenna Wolfgang, Williams Funeral Home | Columbia, TN

“Each year, it’s inspiring to witness the passion and potential of those entering and advancing within the deathcare profession,” said Gino Merendino, President of the ICCFA Educational Foundation. “These scholarships are more than financial support — they are an investment in people who are dedicated to compassion, service, and continuous growth. We’re proud to help open doors to education and leadership development through ICCFA University, and we’re deeply grateful to the donors who make it all possible.”

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The ICCFA Educational Foundation, founded in 2005, seeks to make education accessible to future leaders of the deathcare profession. It does this by awarding scholarships to the educational programs of the International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association, as well as advancing initiatives designed to promote the profession and support the individuals who answer the call of service. 

Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, cremation, funeral, and memorialization profession. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home, and crematory industries, as well as suppliers and related businesses worldwide.

The ICCFA Celebrates a Groundbreaking 2025 Experience in Las Vegas

STERLING, Va. (May 22, 2025) – The International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the 2025 ICCFA Experience, held April 30–May 3 at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. The event welcomed 867 attendees and drew a total of more than 2,000 individuals for an immersive, high-energy gathering focused on innovation, education, and connection.

This year’s event marked the debut of the ICCFA Experience, a bold rebranding of the association’s long-standing Annual Convention & Exposition. The new format and identity were designed to reflect the evolving needs of the deathcare profession and deliver a dynamic, future-focused event unlike anything before.

“This year’s Experience was a transformative moment for the ICCFA,” said ICCFA Executive Director Nadira Baddeliyanage. “From moving the educational sessions to the Expo Hall floor to featuring powerful programming on leadership, technology, and community connection, we wanted attendees to leave feeling energized and equipped—and they did.”

The updated format introduced Three Stages: One Experience, where education was seamlessly woven into the bustling Expo Hall. Dozens of expert-led sessions covered critical topics such as employee retention, cremation revenue strategies, food and beverage integration, digital marketing, and the intersection of AI and empathy in deathcare.

Central to the event experience was the ICCFA Food & Beverage Lounge, a vibrant hub located in the middle of the Expo Hall. Designed as a place for attendees to connect, recharge, and share ideas, the lounge hosted all meal services and receptions throughout the event—creating a natural gathering point for networking and community building.

A standout moment of the event was keynote speaker Clint Pulver, who delivered a powerful and unforgettable session on creating organizational cultures where employees want to stay. His high-energy presentation included an interactive drumming activity that brought the audience to life and perfectly complemented the event’s focus on inspiration and engagement.

“This year wasn’t just about programming; it was about participation,” said ICCFA Past President Lee Longino. “You could feel the energy on the floor—from the ribbon cutting to the late afternoon receptions. Every conversation was an opportunity to spark new ideas or build on trusted relationships.”

The President’s Welcome Reception & Banquet, held on opening night, brought together attendees and exhibitors for an evening of food, networking, and laughter, capped by a comedy performance from Cristela Alonzo. The evening also featured the Celebration of Remembrance, a moving tribute honoring those who have died in the past year. During the banquet, Lee Longino ceremonially passed the gavel to Robert Gordon, Jr., CCE, who was introduced as the new ICCFA President.

The reception also included a special moment honoring Jay D. Dodds, who was presented with the 2025 ICCFA Educational Foundation’s Lasting Impact Award in recognition of his lifelong dedication to education, mentorship, and elevating the profession.

“This was my first ICCFA event as president, and I couldn’t be more proud,” said ICCFA President Robert Gordon, Jr., CCE. “Our profession is evolving rapidly, and the engagement we saw in Las Vegas proves that our members are not just adapting—they’re leading. We’re embracing bold ideas and championing change in ways that will benefit our communities and the families we serve.”

The 2025 ICCFA Experience also featured committee meetings, networking events, and the inaugural Irwin W. Shipper Legislative Session & Reception, offering attendees key updates on legal and regulatory issues shaping the future of the profession.

Planning is already underway for next year’s ICCFA Experience, which will take place April 29–May 2, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas.

For the latest updates and highlights, visit iccfa.com/annual. 

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Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, cremation, funeral, and memorialization profession. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home, and crematory industries, as well as supplier and related businesses worldwide.

Advance Your Career with ICCFA University’s Immersive, Expert-Led Courses

STERLING, Va. (May 21, 2025) – The International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) is proud to announce the return of ICCFA University, taking place July 18–23, 2025, at the Emory Conference Center Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia. Celebrated as one of the most comprehensive and transformative professional development opportunities in the deathcare profession, ICCFA University offers students a powerful blend of classroom learning, networking, and industry best practices.

With a focus on relevant, real-world education, ICCFA University brings together top experts and practitioners to lead students through in-depth coursework across nine specialized colleges, each designed to target key facets of cemetery, cremation, funeral service, and the suppliers who support the profession. 

The 2025 colleges and their deans are:

• College of 21st Century Services | Dean Glenda Stansbury
  Focuses on innovative service delivery and funeral celebrant training.
• College of Cremation Services | Dean Clift Dempsey, CCrE, CCFE
  Offers multi-tiered cremation certifications and operations management.
• College of Hospitality & Customer Experience | Dean Lori Bolton, CSE, CXE
  Explores event planning, hospitality integration, and personalized service strategies.
• College of Land Management & Grounds Operations | Dean Gino Merendino
  Emphasizes cemetery grounds maintenance, environmental planning, and operations.
• College of Leadership, Management & Administration | Dean Gary Freytag, CCFE
  Delivers results-driven leadership, financial management, and human resources education.
• College of Technology | Dean Nick Timpe, CSE
  Equips professionals to harness digital tools, CRM systems, and AI integration.
• J. Asher Neel College of Sales & Marketing | Dean Patrick Downey, CCE
  Focuses on relationship-based selling, branding, and lead generation strategies.
• Todd Van Beck College of Funeral Home Management | Deans Mike Watkins & Mat Forastiere
  Offers comprehensive insight into funeral home operations and business sustainability.
• School of Graduate Studies | Dean Robbie Pape, CCFE
  Tailored for experienced professionals ready to elevate their leadership impact.

“The ICCFA University experience is unlike anything else in the profession,” said Chancellor Jeff Kidwiler, CCE, CSE. “Students don’t just attend classes—they build lifelong friendships, sharpen their professional skills, and come away with new perspectives that shape their careers.”

Participants can also take advantage of a deeply immersive campus environment with meals, accommodations, and networking activities all under one roof. From student trivia night to Sports Night and a celebratory graduation reception, the University fosters community and professional growth in equal measure.

To learn more about ICCFA University 2025 or to register, visit iccfa.com/university. Class sizes are limited, and early registration is encouraged.

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Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, cremation, funeral, and memorialization profession. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home, and crematory industries, as well as supplier and related businesses worldwide.

Batesville Empowers Deathcare Professionals with Industry-Leading Burial, Cremation and Technology Solutions at 2025 ICCFA Exhibition

BATESVILLE, Ind., April 23, 2025 – Batesville, a leading North American provider of high-quality burial and cremation products, innovative technology solutions and a trusted partner to funeral directors, cemeterians and crematory professionals, will showcase a variety of breakthrough products, high-performance digital solutions and merchandising systems designed to help customers drive efficiency and growth at the 2025 International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) Convention and Exposition, May 1 – 2, in Las Vegas, NV. Experts will demonstrate the transformational power of the new Family Choices^® digital and physical showrooms and the advanced capabilities of its MIS and Halcyon management software, web and e-commerce solutions.

“Over the last two years, Batesville has accelerated the level of investments across our business, blending tradition with innovation to provide compelling burial, cremation and technology solutions that deliver value to our customers and help families navigate the end-of-life journey,” said Jenn Parvin, SVP and Chief Marketing Officer for Batesville.

The company has deep customer relationships and a diverse portfolio of solutions to meet the evolving needs of deathcare professionals and the families they serve. Batesville was recently named one of Newsweek’s Most Trustworthy Companies in America for the second consecutive year, an honor that reflects the dedication of 3,000 associates who share a common mission of helping families honor the lives of those they love.^®

Here are some of the Batesville solutions ICCFA attendees can explore:

Family Choices^® Physical and Digital Showrooms