ADVANCE your Business Strategy & Leadership Skills with CANA’s Deathcare Business Administration Certification 

Featuring insights and expertise of Bob Boetticher, Jr. and Doug Gober 

WHEELING, IL— In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, training methods have evolved dramatically. Traditional conference settings provide that satisfying social component, while the convenience of a zoom webinar often lacks interaction and idea sharing. That’s why the Cremation Association of North America’s Deathcare Business Administration Certification combines the connection and attention you love about a CANA event with the convenience of an online and self-paced program. Get training in knowledge, skills, and ideas that bring your career to the next level! This unique education experience kicks off April 1, 2026. 

The CANA Deathcare Business Administration Certification is a 10-week, fully digital program designed for both current and aspiring leaders in deathcare. Built for the modern busy professional, the entirely virtual format allows participants to learn anytime, anywhere. Bi-weekly interactive meetings bring real-world scenarios and practical application to this self-paced online training course on management. A practical approach is emphasized in all discussions, where small group conversations go beyond ‘what we learned’ to sharing best practices and strategies that can be used to create on-the-job impact.  

Modeled after an executive MBA curriculum—but streamlined into 10 weeks—the CANA Deathcare Business Administration Certification equips your team with the tools for: 

1. Organization-Wide Leadership 
   Align your team’s vision and goals across departments, using agile strategies to serve the right customers and adapt to an ever-evolving business environment. 

2. Mastery of People Management 
   Learn how to hire, define success, and coach your teams to excel. With systems like one-on-ones and team huddles, you’ll build a culture of empowerment. 

3. Demystifying Financials 
   Focus on building more profitable firms by understanding financial statements and key ratios. Gain practical tools to use in your daily decision-making. 

To deliver this transformative experience, CANA is working with the expert-led learning platform GoalMakers to offer our profession a solution that strengthens your leadership team and directly improves your bottom line. Led by John Cioffi, Chief Content Officer and co-author of The Winning Manager’s Playbook, and program guide Jeremy Wall, the team is enriched with input from leaders from across the profession. Gain invaluable insights by hearing directly from the experts. You’ll be joined by: 

With more than 35 years of frontline and executive experience, Bob “BBJ” Boetticher, Jr. has built a career defined by operational excellence, business leadership, and a deep understanding of funeral home, crematory and cemetery management. He is a second-generation funeral director, Past President of the Cremation Association of North America (CANA), and currently serves as Assistant Vice President, Field Digital Experience for Service Corporation International (SCI). Widely respected for his operational fluency, leadership acuity, and ability to bridge the gap between technology and real-world field execution, BBJ continues to shape the future of funeral service through innovation, advocacy, and hands-on expertise.  

Doug Gober began his funeral service career more than 45 years ago as a sales representative in the casket industry. He has earned numerous national awards from various organizations within the death care profession. In his quest to provide funeral and cemetery owners successful business solutions, Doug partnered with The Foresight Companies in October 2018, enabling him to expand his service offerings to include Transaction Advisory, Succession Planning, Business Valuations, and Financing. 

The Deathcare Business Administration Certification targets both emerging and seasoned leaders, ensuring you grasp the intricacies of financials and learn how to apply these skills to maximize your team’s performance, serve the right customers, and enhance their hiring processes—creating an immediate impact on your organization. 

We invite you to learn more about the Deathcare Business Administration Certification and gain practical skills you can apply immediately to grow your business and advance your career. Schedule a meeting with program guide Jeremy Wall and talk about your goals and whether this program is right for you: learn.goalmakers.com/meetings/jeremywall/informational 

Take this opportunity to invest in your team’s growth and gain all the essential business knowledge you need—without years of study or student debt. You’ll earn up to 8 hours of CE from the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice (APFSP). 

Registration is $995, with discounts available for pairs and groups from the same company. In December 2025 and January 2026, register two employees and a third attends for free! Beyond the financial savings, teams that go through Deathcare Business Administration Certification together can make the most significant impact with a shared language of leadership and the tools to create positive change. 

Enrollment is open—secure your spot in this exclusive certification program! Register now at: goalmakers.com/cana 

About CANA 

Founded in 1913, the Cremation Association of North America (CANA) is an international organization of over 3,700 members, composed of funeral homes, cemeteries, crematories, industry suppliers, and consultants. CANA members believe that cremation is preparation for memorialization. 

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.

Funeral homes are a great study on this subject.  With many being “Generational” in nature, have you ever wondered why some generational funeral homes stay “status quo” as the next generation takes over and other funeral homes either decline or grow in success with the same generation leadership changes?

I think it is all about the “Leadership” that the next generation brings to the table.  In my view, “Leadership”, or the lack of it, more than any other trait or community change in demographics, is what gets funeral homes excelling in business or declining in business.

With that preface I will tell you that I read this article from the Passare blog titled “Five proven leadership lessons from a CEO“.  The article is a synopsis of an interview with Funeral Director’s Life CEO Kris Seale from the company’s podcast series “The Graveyard Shift”.  You can also access the podcast from the same link.

In his interview Seale brings five lessons that he has learned over the years. Here they are:

 

1. Culture is built by design
2. Hire for attitude, train for skill
3. One bad apple can spoil the culture
4. Share frequent constructive feedback
5. Leadership is more than a title.

 

In the article Seale expounds on each facet of his Five Proven Leadership Lessons and in the podcast you can hear him explain the leadership points in more detail.

The rise of “EQ” — For a long time most experts thought that the smarter one was, as measured by an Intelligence Quotient (IQ), the better at leading one would be.  That is now being challenged with many experts believing that “EQ”, or “Emotional Intelligence” is a greater predictor of success.

Here’s a short explanation from Gemini Artificial Intelligence, about the two and how the two factors can work together to display great leadership skills:

Both EQ (Emotional Quotient) and IQ (Intelligence Quotient) play significant roles in determining success, but they contribute to different aspects. 

IQ’s role

• IQ primarily assesses an individual’s cognitive abilities, such as logical reasoning, problem-solving, and the ability to acquire and apply knowledge.
• High IQ is associated with excelling in tasks that require analytical skills, complex problem-solving, and technical expertise.
• It’s a strong predictor of academic performance and success in roles that demand strong cognitive processing and technical knowledge. 

EQ’s role

• Emotional intelligence (EQ) refers to the ability to understand, manage, and utilize one’s own emotions, as well as recognize and influence the emotions of others.
• Key components of EQ include self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills.
• EQ is especially crucial in leadership, teamwork, communication, and navigating complex social situations.
• Studies suggest that EQ is a more significant predictor of success in many areas, particularly in leadership and interpersonal dynamics, than IQ alone.

Complementary forces

• Instead of viewing EQ and IQ as competing forces, they are best understood as complementary aspects of intelligence.
• IQ might open the door to opportunities, but EQ often determines how effectively individuals navigate their careers, build strong relationships, lead teams, and adapt to changing environments.
• Many employers now recognize the importance of both and prioritize candidates with a strong combination of IQ and EQ.
• Developing both cognitive and emotional intelligence leads to a more balanced and impactful professional journey.

In conclusion, while IQ is valuable for cognitive prowess and technical skills, EQ’s significance for overall success, particularly in leadership, teamwork, and navigating social complexities, is increasingly being recognized and valued. 

 

Related Article —  “EQ is a better predictor of success than IQ”.  MiTraining Blog (Australia)

Tom Anderson
Funeral Director Daily

Funeral Director Daily take:  I’m kind of a “Johnny-come-lately” to the EQ theory.  I had never heard of EQ until I started on the Board at the University of Minnesota.  But, I now believe that “Emotional Intelligence” is the foundational trait that builds a business.  In my opinion, to build a business into a success, one has to understand what is going on around him/her at all times  —  that recognition of surroundings is not something that a high IQ person will necessarily possess.

However, a high EQ person will have that recognition.  When I play golf if I am in a cart with the other golfer driving, if they always drive to their golf ball first and then say something like “Where’s your ball?” that’s an indication that they don’t have a very high EQ because they are never concerned with you until they have taken care of themselves.

Just my thought here. . . .but I don’t think I would put that person in a leadership position.  I want my leaders, or funeral home managers, to be concerned with their clients and their team members before they are concerned with themselves.

Servant Driven Leaders — Bob Upgren is a “Servant Driven Leader”.  I first met Bob Upgren when I owned a sports travel business and our company  led a college basketball all-star team on a 10-day exhibition tour of Europe in 1991.  Bob Upgren was a recent college graduate and member of the all-star team and I traveled with the team on this particular tour.

Today, Bob is one of the nation’s foremost speakers on Servant Leadership.  I keep the following graphic, which I was exposed to at one of his motivational speaking events, posted in my office to remind me of “Leadership”.  His motto is “We lead best when we serve first“.  I think that motto is a great moniker for leadership success. . . . .especially in the funeral business.

By the way, if you are ever looking for a motivational speaker for your group I have no better suggestion than Bob Upgren.  Here is his website.

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“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.

Flanner Buchanan Announces Key Leadership Promotions 

Indianapolis, IN – Flanner Buchanan is proud to announce two key leadership promotions that reflect the organization’s continued growth and commitment to excellence in service and operations. 

Effective July 1, 2025, Cari Jones, CFSP, will be promoted to Director of Operations, East/West. 

Also effective July 1, 2025, Jamie Weyer, CFSP, will be promoted to Director of Operations,  North. 

Both Cari and Jamie have demonstrated outstanding leadership, operational insight, and dedication to the families we serve. In their new roles, they will oversee daily operations and support staff across multiple locations, ensuring Flanner Buchanan’s high standards of care and professionalism are consistently met. 

“We are incredibly fortunate to have leaders like Cari and Jamie on our team,” said Bruce Buchanan, CEO and fourth-generation owner of Flanner Buchanan. “Their promotions are a reflection of the talent, compassion, and commitment that drive our mission forward each day.” 

These appointments mark a significant step as Flanner Buchanan continues to enhance its operational structure to better serve families across Central Indiana.

For more information about Flanner Buchanan and its leadership team, please visit  www.flannerbuchanan.com. 

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Founded in 1881, Flanner Buchanan is one of Indiana’s most respected and innovative funeral service providers. With multiple locations throughout Central Indiana, the organization is dedicated to offering personalized, compassionate care to families during life’s most difficult moments. Flanner Buchanan provides a full range of funeral, cremation, cemetery, and preplanning services, blending tradition with thoughtful advancement to meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves. Learn more at www.flannerbuchanan.com.

In this very brief press release issued out of Toronto, Ontario, last weekend funeral home and cemetery operator Park Lawn Corporation announced that they had acquired two free-standing funeral homes in Colorado’s Western Slope.  The press release announced that they had purchased substantially all of the assets of Hood Mortuary located in Durango, Colorado and in Pagosa Springs, Colorado.

When you look at the website of Hood Mortuary, which you can access here, it appears that these two funeral homes were under common ownership.

Jennifer Hay
Park Lawn CEO

Jennifer W. Hay, Chief Executive Officer of Park Lawn Corporation made these prepared comments in the press release, “We are pleased to deepen our Colorado presence through the strategic acquisition of the Hood businesses.  These outstanding businesses will allow us to better serve the communities of the Western Slope and will be an excellent addition to our existing portfolio of high-quality businesses in Colorado.” 

According to the press release, Park Lawn Corporation operates businesses in two Canadian provinces and 17 of the United States.

Park Lawn Leadership Changes —  This is the first press release we have seen from Park Lawn Corporation that lists Ms. Hay as the Chief Executive Officer.  For the last several years Mr. J. Bradley Green had been in that position.

I first learned in late April that Mr. Green was no longer with Park Lawn Corporation.  To date, at least that I can find on their website, the company has issued no public press release on Mr. Green’s departure nor Ms. Hay’s ascension to the top position at Park Lawn Corporation.  The last notice that we had on leadership changes at Park Lawn Corporation was a press release on September 10, 2024, about one month after the company was taken private.  Funeral Director Daily published this article on those personnel moves on September 12, 2024.

The Female Leaders — Jennifer Hay joins Lilly Donohue as CEO’s of two of the largest four funeral home and cemetery consolidators in North America.  Lilly Donohue has been, for the past couple of years, the CEO of Everstory Partners, a private company operating over 450 funeral home and cemetery locations in North America and Puerto Rico.

LIlly Donohue
Everstory CEO

While Everstory Partners and Park Lawn Corporation are now private companies and revenue numbers are somewhat hard to come by, I don’t think it is a stretch to suggest that Service Corporation International, Everstory Partners, Carriage Services, and Park Lawn Corporation are the four largest funeral home/cemetery businesses (by revenue) in North America.

On the topic of female leadership, here’s an article on the Lisa Baue led movement for women’s leadership in funeral service.  There is no doubt that the number of women in funeral service is greatly increasing and Hay, Donohue, and Baue have the opportunity with their positions to promote and increase female leadership in the profession.

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Selected Leadership Academy Celebrates Graduating Class

2023-2025 Graduating Class Honored as New Participants Welcomed

CHICAGO, Ill. – May 6, 2025 — Members of Selected Independent Funeral Homes’ Leadership Academy created another memorable Leadership Conference in Centennial, CO on April 29 – May 2.

The event kicked off with orientation for the Academy’s new 2025-2027 class. The conference continued with a variety of events and activities, including members of the graduating class, Second Wind, giving their individual Capstone presentations prior to their graduation ceremony.

This year’s graduates are:

• Matt Asta, Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home in Phoenix, Arizona
• Stacy Billow, The Billow Company in Akron, Ohio
• Meghan Burmeister, Busch Funeral and Crematory Services in Cleveland, Ohio
• Hyrum Heward, Larkin Mortuary in Salt Lake City, Utah
• Jill Lazar, Hoffman Funeral Home & Crematory in Carlisle, Pennsylvania
• Joeylynne Luck, Panebaker Funeral Home & Cremation Care Center, Inc. in Hanover, Pennsylvania
• Francis Maggiore, Keohane Funeral Home in Quincy, Massachusetts
• Doug Reinbold, Reinbold-Novak Funeral Home in Sheboygan, Wisconsin
• Jason Storm, Starks Family Funeral Homes in St. Joseph, Michigan
• Ping Wu, Cypress Lawn in Colma, California

“It was exciting to celebrate the Academy’s twelfth graduating class,” said Melanie Hofmann, Professional Development and Events Manager. “When developing this program more than a decade ago, it was built on the mission to teach principles of leadership to current and emerging leaders within Selected member firms. Today we have more than 100 members who have experienced this meaningful and impactful program. It’s a testament to how Selected members truly are committed to life-long learning and being leaders, no matter position or title.”

Selected is grateful for ASD, the Academy’s Official Partner.

About the Selected Leadership Academy: The Selected Leadership Academy is a personalized journey for those, no matter title or position, who believe their leadership matters and choose to become better. It is open to anyone actively engaged in the daily operations of a Selected member firm who is inspired to expand their leadership skills. For more than a decade, the Academy has focused on building and supporting leaders because leadership is so deeply woven into the fabric of Selected’s culture.

About Selected Independent Funeral Homes: Selected Independent Funeral Homes delivers innovative and pertinent resources, solutions and ongoing support necessary for enduring excellence to its international network of independently owned death-care providers who aspire to be the very best in their profession. Members of Selected operate according to specific standards and best practices to provide the public with reliable, high-quality service and funeral-related information.

Leadership Starts Here: NFDA Announces 2025-26 Class of Emerging Leaders 

Brookfield, Wis. – The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) is thrilled to introduce the 17 funeral service professionals selected to participate in the 2025-26 National Emerging Leaders Program. This year-long leadership development experience empowers participants to grow as visionary, values-driven leaders in their funeral homes, communities and the profession at large. 

Since its inception, the National Emerging Leaders Program has nurtured nearly 60 promising professionals, providing them with the skills, knowledge and confidence to lead with purpose. Through a combination of in-person and virtual learning, mentorship and invaluable networking, participants are equipped to inspire meaningful change in funeral service. 

The 2025-26 program will begin with a retreat at NFDA headquarters in Brookfield, Wisconsin, in June, and will conclude at the 2026 NFDA Leadership Conference. Participants will also engage in a series of approximately seven virtual learning sessions throughout the year, led by top funeral service leaders and experts from outside the profession. 

The members of the 2025-26 National Emerging Leaders Program class are:

• Kerri Bittner, Elm Ridge Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Muncie, Indiana
• Elijah Bragg, Heritage Funeral and Cremation, Spokane, Washington
• Dane Chasca, McPherson Funeral Services, Cranbrook, British Columbia, Canada
• Renee Childs, A.A. Rayner & Sons Funeral Home, Chicago, Illinois
• Madison Crihfield, Covington Funeral Home, Covington, Tennessee
• Desirae Delgado, Harrell Funeral Homes, Austin, Texas
• Ryan Drake, Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, Owosso, Michigan
• Monica Hall, Hill’s Mortuary, Statesboro, Georgia
• Caitlin Johnson, Evanson Jensen Funeral Home, Mott, North Dakota
• Nicole Lutz, Mueller Memorial, Saint Paul, Minnesota
• Michael McGaffigan, McGaffigan Funeral Home, Pepperell, Massachusetts
• Andrea Rief, Hoy Kilnoski Funeral Home, Council Bluffs, Iowa
• Tina Spedden, Lee Funeral Homes, Owings, Maryland
• Loran Spence, Carmon Community Funeral Homes, Windsor, Connecticut
• Jarell Springfield, Calumet Park Funeral Chapel, Merrillville, Indiana
• Katlyn Taueetia, Coleman-Taylor Funeral Services, Cecil, Pennsylvania
• Tyler Wilson, Arch L. Heady & Son Funeral Home – Okolona Chapel, Louisville, Kentucky 

“Leadership is not about a title – it’s about service, vision and impact,” said NFDA President Christopher P. Robinson, CFSP, CCO. “NFDA’s National Emerging Leaders Program is one of the most important ways we’re preparing the next generation of professionals to carry our profession forward with integrity and innovation. I congratulate this year’s class and look forward to watching their growth and leadership in the years to come.” 

The program is open to all licensed funeral professionals in the United States and Canada – regardless of NFDA membership – who are in the early stages of their careers. Participants are selected through a competitive application process. NFDA extends its sincere thanks to the Funeral Service Foundation for its generous support of the National Emerging Leaders Program. 

“The leaders we cultivate today will shape the future of funeral service,” said John Heald, chair of the Funeral Service Foundation Board of Trustees. “That’s why the Funeral Service Foundation is proud to support this transformative program: it equips talented professionals with the tools, connections and confidence they need to grow, lead and make a lasting difference in the communities they serve.” 

To learn more about the program, visit NFDA.org/EmergingLeaders. 

NFDA is the world’s leading and largest funeral service association, serving 20,000 individual members who represent nearly 11,000 funeral homes in the United States and 49 countries around the world. NFDA is the trusted leader, beacon for ethics and the strongest advocate for the profession. NFDA is the association of choice because it offers funeral professionals comprehensive educational resources, tools to manage successful businesses, guidance to become pillars in their communities and the expertise to foster future generations of funeral professionals. NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, Wis., and has an office in Washington, D.C. For more information, visit NFDA.org. 

Charting the Future of Funeral Service: Register Now for NFDA’s 2025 Leadership Conference

Brookfield, Wis. – This summer, current and aspiring leaders in funeral service will gather in California’s Wine Country for one of the profession’s most inspiring and energizing events – the 2025 National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Leadership Conference, taking place August 3-6 at the Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa. This conference will offer a rich blend of forward-thinking education, peer-to-peer connection and meaningful dialogue aimed at building and strengthening leadership skills. 

Expert-Led Sessions 

The NFDA Leadership Conference will empower funeral service leaders to build strong associations that can navigate challenges and play a role in shaping a vibrant future for the profession. Speakers will provide practical strategies, leadership insights and forward-thinking approaches to navigate shifting consumer expectations, regulatory changes and emerging opportunities for innovation.

Participants will also explore what leadership actually looks like on the ground; they will hear from leaders who are in the thick of it, sharing the moments that shaped their growth, the tools that helped them shift and the lessons they’re still learning. Attendees will also benefit from the ever-popular “Breakout by Office” sessions, which provide a forum for state association leaders to dive into the unique responsibilities of their roles. These peer-led discussions promote meaningful dialogue, idea-sharing and collaboration around pressing challenges and emerging opportunities. Pending approval, NFDA Leadership Conference participants can earn up to 10 CE hours from APFSP and most state licensing boards. 

Networking & Special Events Beyond the educational sessions, the Leadership Conference offers ample opportunities for networking and rejuvenation in one of the country’s most scenic destinations. Participants can kick off their experience with a golf outing at Eagle Vines Golf Club the morning of August 3. Co-designed by World Golf Hall of Famer Johnny Miller, this pristine course offers both a challenge and a peaceful retreat into nature. This event requires additional registration and includes a golf polo shirt, transportation credits, range balls, golf cart, box lunch and on-course beverages. 

The Welcome Party the evening of August 3 will set the tone for the week, inviting attendees to gather for a relaxing evening amid rolling vineyards and golden hills – a perfect setting to reconnect with colleagues and forge new relationships. On August 5, the Cask & Vine Closing Party will offer an unforgettable evening at Artesa Winery, hailed as one of the best wineries to visit in Napa Valley. Attendees will enjoy exclusive access to this architectural gem, with sweeping vineyard views, curated wines, hearty hors d’oeuvres and the warm camaraderie that defines the NFDA community (additional registration required). 

Registration is Now Open 

Funeral service professionals interested in attending this essential leadership experience can register and find more information at NFDA.org/Leadership or by calling 800-228-6332. Registration includes presentations, handouts, continental breakfasts and the Welcome Reception. Early-bird pricing is available through June 1; registration closes July 25. Tickets for the golf outing and Closing Party may be added to your registration. 

About the Meritage Resort and Spa 

Among sprawling vineyards and sun-kissed hills, the Meritage Resort and Spa offers a serene escape at the gateway to Wine Country. This expansive, mission-style resort spans 36 acres – including nine acres of active vineyards – and features luxury accommodations, world-class amenities and immersive experiences. 

Guests can enjoy a daily bottle of water, a bottle of signature wine, in-room coffee and tea, access to a 24-hour fitness studio, vineyard walking trails, complimentary Wi-Fi, shuttle service to downtown Napa and more. The resort’s unique Village area also offers on-site tasting rooms from local craft winemakers and breweries. Rooms in the NFDA block are available for a discounted rate of $379 per night plus taxes and a reduced resort fee of $25 per night. Reservations must be made by June 30; see NFDA.org/Leadership for details. 

Thank You 

NFDA thanks the following companies for their support of the 2025 Leadership Conference: Johnson Consulting, C&J Financial, Federated Insurance, Homesteaders Life Company, Carriage Services, Argent Trust, ASD – Answering Service for Directors, Tribute Tech, National Guardian Life (NGL), Foresight, Nomis Publications Inc., Ring Ring Marketing, Tukios and Byline Bank. 

NFDA is the world’s leading and largest funeral service association, serving 20,000 individual members who represent nearly 11,000 funeral homes in the United States and 49 countries around the world. NFDA is the trusted leader, beacon for ethics and the strongest advocate for the profession. NFDA is the association of choice because it offers funeral professionals comprehensive educational resources, tools to manage successful businesses, guidance to become pillars in their communities and the expertise to foster future generations of funeral professionals. NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, Wis., and has an office in Washington, D.C. For more information, visit NFDA.org.

Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science Announces Leadership Transition

Cincinnati, OH – March 27, 2025 – The Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science (CCMS) announces the resignation of Jack E. Lechner, Jr. from his position as President and Chief Executive Officer.  Jack served in this role since January 2016, during which he led the institution with dedication and  vision. Under his leadership, CCMS expanded educational offerings, enhanced student support  services, and strengthened partnerships within the funeral service profession. 

We are grateful for Jack’s commitment to advancing CCMS and his unwavering dedication to the students, faculty, and staff. His passion for funeral service education has left a lasting impact, and we wish him the best in his future endeavors. 

The CCMS Board of Trustees has appointed Poul Lemasters as interim President and Chief Executive Officer. Poul has served on the Board of Trustees since 2019 and has temporarily resigned that position to assume this leadership role. 

Poul brings extensive experience in the funeral service profession, combining legal expertise with practical knowledge. As an attorney and licensed funeral director, Poul has been a prominent consultant and educator, guiding professionals through complex legal and operational challenges, and has helped businesses improve processes, manage risks, and achieve sustainable growth. His  background positions him well to maintain CCMS’s momentum while the Board of Trustees  conducts a comprehensive search for a permanent President and CEO. 

“I am honored to step into this role during such an important time for CCMS,” said Poul Lemasters.  “I look forward to working closely with our dedicated faculty, staff, and students to continue our mission of advancing funeral service education and preparing future leaders in the profession.” 

The Board of Trustees is committed to ensuring a seamless transition and continuing CCMS’s mission to educate and inspire the next generation of funeral service professionals. 

The Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science is an institution which endeavors to develop end of life professionals who can function with distinction within their chosen profession and within the community of life. The College strives to provide the best education possible, and focuses on offerings that provide convenience, accessibility and outreach to learners. You can see more about The Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science at www.CCMS.edu.