DEAD Talks 2026 to Empower Deathcare Professionals to ‘Ready. Set. Grow.’ in Las Vegas

STERLING, Va. (November 10, 2025) –The International Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association (ICCFA) proudly announces DEAD Talks 2026, the profession’s premier sales conference, taking place January 13–15, 2026, at Park MGM Las Vegas. This year’s theme, “Ready. Set. Grow.”, celebrates the forward momentum of today’s deathcare professionals as they expand their skills, elevate service, and lead with confidence in an evolving marketplace.

DEAD Talks has become a can’t-miss event for sales professionals, managers, and leaders seeking to take their performance to the next level. The 2026 program features a powerhouse lineup of deathcare innovators and educators delivering hands-on sessions, interactive panels, and fresh strategies to help attendees grow both personally and professionally.

The event begins Tuesday, January 13, with a first-timers orientation and lively ice breaker led by Lori Bolton, CSE, CXE, of Park Lawn Corporation. Attendees will then join “The Wheel of Objections” panel, moderated by John Bolton, CCE, CCrE, CSE, CXE, and Lori Bolton, featuring Erin Creger, Néctar Ramírez, Greg Norris, and Dan Kientzel. Panelists will share how to overcome common objections and turn challenging conversations into opportunities to serve. The day concludes with a welcome reception and networking celebration.

On Wednesday, January 14, the program kicks into high gear with keynote speaker David Priemer, author and renowned Sales Scientist. In his keynote, Priemer will explore how effective messaging shapes every step of the purchase journey—emphasizing that the experience is the product. Drawing on real-world insights and practical examples, he’ll share actionable strategies to help professionals connect authentically with families and guide them toward confident, value-driven decisions.

The day’s sessions will continue with four key themes—Educating the Consumer, Knowledge + Passion = Confidence, How to Get More Leads, and Managing Sales—featuring expert presenters including Lee Longino, Jennifer Graziano, Dr. Jason Troyer, Honnalora Hubbard, Noble Sines, Néctar Ramírez, Phil Zehms, Cathy Younkin, Brad Palmer, Eric Battles, Gary O’Sullivan, and Tony Armogida.

On Thursday, January 15, the event concludes with the Sales Seminar Certification Workshop, led by Tony Armogida, Erin Creger, and René Negrete, along with the ICCFA Sales & Marketing Committee. This hands-on session will give attendees a complete blueprint for delivering engaging, results-driven seminar presentations. The closing session, “Monday Morning Mindset” with Shane Pudenz, will help attendees translate inspiration into immediate action.

“DEAD Talks represents the ICCFA’s commitment to empowering professionals across every corner of deathcare,” said ICCFA President Bob Gordon, Jr., CCE. “It’s not just an event—it’s a catalyst for growth, innovation, and excellence. As our members evolve to meet the needs of today’s families, DEAD Talks gives them the tools, inspiration, and community to lead that change.”

“Every year, DEAD Talks is built by sales professionals, for sales professionals,” said Mike Harens, Chairman of the ICCFA Sales & Marketing Committee. “Our committee’s goal is to create an environment where attendees can connect, learn from one another, and leave energized to put new ideas into action. DEAD Talks is about helping every participant—whether it’s their first year or their fifth—walk away ready to grow.”

The ICCFA Educational Foundation is once again supporting professional growth by offering scholarships to help current ICCFA members attend DEAD Talks. These scholarships cover the full cost of registration—recipients are only responsible for travel and lodging. Applications are open now through November 18, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET, and are limited, so members are encouraged to apply early.

Registration for DEAD Talks 2026 is now open at iccfa.com/sales. Attendees are encouraged to take advantage of early bird pricing available through December 19, and group discounts make it easier than ever for teams to grow together.

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.

DEAD Talks 2025 Set to Inspire Innovation and Drive Sales Success in Las Vegas

STERLING, Va. (Dec. 16, 2024) – The International Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association (ICCFA) invites deathcare professionals to DEAD Talks 2025, an annual sales-focused conference offering cutting-edge insights into data-driven performance, technology integration, and artificial intelligence. The event will occur February 4-6, 2025, at the Park MGM Las Vegas.

This year’s conference features sessions to give attendees actionable knowledge to transform their sales and business growth approach.

Sessions include:

• Using Data to Drive Better Performance:
  • “Three Surprising Discoveries from Consumer Insights” – George Owens, Fortitude Research and Marketing, will explore unexpected insights into consumer behavior.
  • “Interactive Workshop: Leverage, Plan & Act on Current Industry Consumer Insights”—Dan Kientzel, Service Corporation International, will offer practical tools for harnessing data for better results.
• Ways to Leverage Technology in Your Sales Process:
  • “Un-Cremating Your Profits with Technology” – Eric Banks, Funeral 365, will explain how technology can unlock new revenue streams.
  • “Interactive Workshop” – Nick Timpe, CSE, webCemeteries, will provide hands-on guidance on incorporating technology into sales.
• Artificial Intelligence: The Future of Funerals:
  • “Artificial Intelligence 2.0”: Chuck Gallagher, American Funeral Financial, will discuss how AI advancements are transforming the profession.
  • “AI Impact on Funerals”—Aaron Avner, Tukios, will discuss AI’s practical applications in serving families.

The conference will close with a motivational wrap-up session, “Monday Morning Mindset,” featuring Shane Pudenz of Carriage Services and Erin Creger of Security National Family of Companies.

Registration information:
Early bird registration is available through Dec. 30, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. EST.

Online registration closes Jan. 29, 2025.

Hotel accommodations: Park MGM, located at 3770 S Las Vegas Blvd., is a smoke-free property on the Las Vegas Strip and offers discounted rates for attendees. The ICCFA room block closes on Jan. 3, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST. 

Why attend?
Attendees will gain expert insights, practical tools, and networking opportunities to drive sales success and stay ahead of deathcare trends. DEAD Talks 2025 is the must-attend event for deathcare professionals looking to grow their businesses and adopt innovative practices.

Learn more: For more information or to register, visit https://iccfa.com/sales/ or contact the ICCFA meetings department at 703-391-8400.

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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.

Your Voice Matters: NFDA Members Set to Influence National Policy at 2025 Advocacy Summit

Brookfield, Wis. – With the 119th Congress beginning its two-year session in early-January, the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) is calling on members to unite in Washington, D.C., for the 2025 Advocacy Summit. Taking place April 9-11, 2025, at the historic Mayflower Hotel, this exclusive event for NFDA members offers a critical opportunity to re-engage with national leaders who have served our country for years and build relationships with newly elected leaders who have yet to learn how their work has a direct impact on the funeral service profession and grieving families.

Advocacy in Action

The NFDA Advocacy Summit is more than just a gathering – it’s a powerful opportunity to ensure that the voice of the funeral service profession is heard at the highest levels of government. During last year’s Summit, attendees participated in nearly 200 meetings with Members of Congress or their staff, making a tangible impact on legislative understanding and action.

“NFDA is always looking out for its members and their interests,” said NFDA President Chris Robinson, CFSP, CCO. “We have a full-time lobbyist in Washington who advocates for your interests every day on Capitol Hill, but there’s no substitute for visiting the offices of Members of Congress all at once to explain our stance on issues and share our personal stories as funeral directors on the front lines helping families through difficult times. These stories resonate with lawmakers and help them understand how their decisions directly affect our ability to serve grieving families and communities.”

Navigating a New Legislative Landscape

With the new session of Congress, a fresh legislative agenda will take shape. Lesley Witter, MPA, CAE, NFDA Senior Vice President of Advocacy, emphasized the importance of early engagement: “The legislative slate is wiped clean in January. We’ll be actively engaged and helping to shape legislation and regulation. We will brief members on the key legislation and regulations that will impact the funeral service profession; it’s these issues that NFDA members will be advocating for during the Advocacy Summit.”

Additionally, attendees will have an opportunity to speak with their elected officials about other critical issues such as the financial impact that the funeral service profession has on the nation and the individual states from which they hail, the ongoing reviews of formaldehyde by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Funeral Rule by the Federal Trade Commission, and much more.

A Rich Program of Activities

The Advocacy Summit will include all the elements NFDA members have come to expect and enjoy, including a Welcome Reception, an issues briefing, and optional activities like a wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery and a tour of Washington, D.C.

The heart of the Summit remains the day that NFDA members will spend on Capitol Hill meeting with federal elected officials. During these critical meetings, NFDA members will take a proactive approach to advancing legislation that affects funeral service, small business and bereaved families.

“Legislators need to hear from you directly,” emphasized Witter. “They need to understand how their decisions affect not just your profession and business, but the grieving families you serve. The Advocacy Summit is your chance to tell those stories and influence the future of funeral service.”

Real Voices, Real Impact

Past participants have described the Advocacy Summit as transformative. “My favorite part was being able to go to the Capitol and advocate for the profession I love so much,” said one 2024 Advocacy Summit participant. “Being able to be a voice for all of us in this field was something that I will hold near to my heart. It is something that I am passionate about and being able to advocate for change is a great feeling.”

“I had the absolute best experience participating in this event,” noted another 2024 Summit participant. “The best part was being able to talk to staff on Capitol Hill about things that are important to me as a funeral director. I can’t wait for next year!”

Maximizing the Capitol Hill Experience

To help attendees make the most of their time on Capitol Hill, NFDA has again partnered with Advocacy Associates. This experienced firm will schedule meetings with federal legislators and staff, ensuring each attendee’s voice is heard by those who can make a difference.

Between meetings, attendees can visit the NFDA Welcome Room at the Capitol Hill Club, a comfortable space to relax, enjoy refreshments and debrief with fellow members. NFDA staff and board members will be on hand to offer support and answer questions.

NFDA Members Encouraged to Register Early

NFDA members can save when they register by the March 7, 2025, early-bird deadline. Registering by March 7, 2025, will also give NFDA and Advocacy Associates the lead time needed to request and schedule Congressional meetings for Summit participants. To ensure the Advocacy Summit addresses the critical legislative and regulatory issues that impact NFDA members, participation is limited to association members, their families and state association staff. Online registration closes March 31, 2025.

Attendees must make their hotel reservations at the Mayflower Hotel by March 7, 2025, to lock in the exclusive Advocacy Summit rate of $374 per night plus fees and taxes. The Advocacy Summit room block will fill up quickly – those who are planning to participate in the Summit should book their room as soon as possible.

NFDA members should visit NFDA.org/AdvocacySummit for the latest information about the Advocacy Summit, registration and booking hotel accommodations at the Mayflower Hotel. Information and registration are also available by calling NFDA 800-228-6332 (262-789-1880).

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 www.nfda.org.

Just over a month from now, from October 19 thru the 23rd, I’ll be in New Orleans attending the 2024 National Funeral Directors Association National Convention.  I procrastinated but still got registered under the “Early Bird” registration that saved me $150 right off the top.  . . . . I also reserved my hotel room right across the street from the convention center, so I’m almost all set.

I just need to decide on my flights and where I will take them from.  I live almost exactly – 2 hours to each via the interstate highway system – between Minneapolis and Fargo in central Minnesota.  Flights from Minneapolis come with more options but also more headaches in getting to/from the airport. . . From Fargo flights are less plentiful and always connect somewhere, but the automobile trip, and parking, to and from the airport is always hassle free.

If you are a full-time funeral director or funeral home owner I understand how hard it can be to get to the NFDA National Convention.  Between a work schedule, business operations work, and simply wanting to be there for families in your own community that might need your service, taking the time off to go and learn can be difficult. . . . . Quite frankly, I think I only made two NFDA National Conventions during my 33 years of funeral home ownership.

Tom Anderson
Funeral Director Daily

I know how it is.  . I wanted to be there for the families in my community when they needed me.  However, in retrospect, I think I would have been a better funeral director to those families if I had taken some time for professional advancement such as one will get at NFDA.

Now, that, as my wife says, I carry my business in my laptop, I can be almost anywhere and get my work done.  It’s a long way from my 1980 work life start that I had when I was tethered to a land-line phone during my on-call hours.

This will be my 3rd NFDA Convention in the last three years — Baltimore, Las Vegas, and now New Orleans.  I’ve come to really learn from them and as I’ve gotten more experience in the profession.  I’ve got more and more friends to say hello to also.  NFDA provides me that opportunity and as I age I cherish the chance to see old friends more and more.

As a working funeral director and/or owner I know that it is difficult and expensive to attend.  However, if you do, I don’t think you will be disappointed.  I’ve written about how funeral service is changing and keeping up with the changes and trends may give you a leg up on the competition in your community.  I’ve been looking at the seminars that I’ll be attending and I have choices all the way from preparation room procedures to government policy making. . . so, I’m guessing that whatever you are interested in you will find.

A few hours on the Expo floor seeing all the new products and services available may give you some insight to which products and/or services could take your funeral home to the next level.  Who knows, you might have a discussion with a new supplier of some type of product that, if nothing else, gives you leverage in dealing with the product you are now using for better pricing or other terms.

And where else can you get a chance to visit with all of the preneed insurance companies and get an idea of how that company that you are using stacks up with the others as far as face value issue amount, growth rates, and commission stands. . . .Just maybe you might find a partner that is a better fit for your funeral home situation.

So, even if you have not done so yet.  Think about attending the NFDA National Convention in New Orleans next month.  The NFDA began way back in 1882 just as funeral homes were starting to get organized and it has safeguarded our profession for 142 years since.

If you want to look into attending you can start by clicking here.

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“A servant’s attitude guided by Christ leads to a significant life”

NFDA Special Advocacy Bulletin: EPA Set to Release Formaldehyde Draft Risk Assessment Tomorrow

The day funeral service has been waiting for since 2019 is almost here. NFDA has learned that tomorrow, March 15, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will release its draft risk assessment of formaldehyde.

The EPA selected formaldehyde for a risk assessment under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) in 2019. TSCA requires the EPA to periodically conduct risk assessments to determine whether particular uses of various chemicals present an unreasonable risk to human health or the environment.

This draft risk assessment will indicate whether formaldehyde poses an unreasonable risk to human health or the environment and at what level. Following the publication of the draft risk assessment in the Federal Register, there will be a 60-day public comment period. The EPA will then take comments under advisement and finalize the risk assessment. We will be asking funeral service professionals to provide comments to the EPA about the impact of their decisions on funeral service. This is a time where the profession needs to speak with one loud, unified voice!

If the final EPA risk assessment finds that formaldehyde presents an unreasonable risk to human health or the environment, it could result in the agency taking actions, such as:

• Establishing very low exposure standards
• Enacting management restrictions
• Setting standards that funeral directors and embalmers must meet to embalm with formaldehyde and issuing violation notices and penalties should they not comply
• Strict exposure controls and exposure limits for remaining permissible industrial or commercial uses, with strict recordkeeping requirements
• Phase out periods for restricted uses ranging from 180 days to 10 years, depending on the product
• Prohibition of consumer uses
• Prohibition of most industrial and commercial uses

NFDA will share more information in a Special Bulletin as soon as we have had time to analyze the draft risk assessment.

NFDA will also host a free webinar for members at 10 a.m. CT on Wednesday, March 27. NFDA Senior Vice President, Advocacy, Lesley Witter, will share vital information about what the draft risk assessment may mean for you and next steps in the TSCA process. Be among the first to learn more and register for The Number Is In! An Update on the EPA Formaldehyde Review and the NEW Proposed Formaldehyde Exposure Limit.

NFDA Takes the Lead for the Profession

From the moment the EPA selected formaldehyde for review in 2019, NFDA has been the leading voice for funeral service.

NFDA provided multiple rounds of oral and written testimony to the EPA. NFDA has also educated Congress and the EPA about the importance of formaldehyde in the embalming process and the right of Americans to hold an open casket funeral.

Additionally, NFDA commissioned the peer-reviewed and published NFDA Formaldehyde Exposure Study to offer current data that characterizes expected formaldehyde exposure in the 21st Century.

NFDA’s scientific study found that the level of exposure to formaldehyde for funeral directors and embalmers during an embalming is less than current Occupational Safety and Health Administration permissible eight-hour and short-term exposure limits. NFDA’s data shows that trained funeral service professionals can effectively manage their exposure to formaldehyde to well-below current occupational limits – information that has been shared with the EPA in both oral and written testimony.

The results of this study were published in the peer-reviewed scientific Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, lending weight and credibility to the findings and presenting a stark contrast to existing scientific data.

This EPA risk assessment is a multi-phase process that is expected to last until at least 2026, likely longer. NFDA will keep you informed as it continues to engage on your behalf and that of the profession.

Are you ready to step up your game in your funeral business, but aren’t sure how?!

We’ve got you covered. 

We’ve collected some of our favorite books on communication, holding space, emotional intelligence, loss, grief and leadership (some of the most important habits of a successful funeral pro) to help you spark some fresh motivation!

Why wait? Let’s dive right in and see where you can expand your skill set:

Hello, Goodbye: 75 Rituals for Times of Loss, Celebration and Change

Review snippet: “Day Schildkret’s book Hello, Goodbye is the most direct and moving guide to ritual that I have ever read. . . Here you will find simple, evocative, original, powerful rituals for bedtimes and seasons, for new names and new homes, for birthing and coming out, for growing up and grieving—but not only rituals. . . . You just might discover a way to live more consciously, with feeling and gratitude.” 

– Rabbi Jill Hammer, PhD, author of The Jewish Book of Days: A Companion for All Seasons

Why we love it: If there is one thing we can acquaint ourselves with to make it through this modern society we live in, its ritual. There are rituals for every kind of loss in this book, and that’s why it’s such an important companion to the modern seeker. As religion declines and spirituality increases, we are being asked to lean on ancient wisdom and trust in its ability to hold us through it all. This book is that invitation and more.

Who this book is for: Funeral professionals who want to support families with rituals, and anyone who desires a feeling of safety and support through transitions and loss

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

Review snippet: “I’ve read a ton of non-fiction and business minded books and they all seem to have the secret to getting more out of your life, your business, your relationships, etc. That’s all well and good, but the most effective changes – coincidentally – may in fact take the least amount of brainpower. They come in the form of habits, ways our brain have been wired to do things naturally and without thinking, and more importantly, small, daily or near-daily actions that trigger reward centers in our brain.”

Why we love it: If we want to be successful in our business, we need to recognize that our success is directly related to the choices we make each day. Atomic Habits offers a space to consider and bring awareness to these choices. Is staying up late watching Netflix and drinking wine when you have 2 calls the next day the path to success? Probably not. Sounds like more of a coping mechanism to cover up deeper feelings and emotions. This book is truly a gem in helping you to create a more conscious lifestyle that supports a more conscious, successful business. Hands down. Don’t miss this book!

Who it’s for: Funeral business owner and leaders in the funeral industry. We are leaning on you to create some new trends for all of us steeped in consciousness and mindfulness please!

21.5 Unbreakable Laws of Selling

Review snippet: “If you are in sales, this book and everything that Jeffrey has ever published is a “must-have” for your library and for your success on the job. You’ll learn the true meaning of Jeffrey trade-marked saying: “People hate to be sold but they love to buy!”

Why we love it: Sales is a part of the job as a funeral professional, no matter how much you hate it. No one wants to sell to a grieving person. Some of us may have some ethical challenges around it. However, what if you saw selling as service? This book really helps to support you in making that mindset shift so you can better your sales techniques by serving your families better. Check it out and see for yourself!

Who it’s for: The funeral professional who resists sales but knows they need sales skills to survive in their job or funeral business.

Holding Space: On Loving, Dying, and Letting Go

Review snippet: “This is a beautifully written book about the challenging practice of remaining present—holding non-reactive space—around emotions of grief, sorrow and loss. This practice is brought alive through many touching vignettes from the author’s life and work as a hospital chaplain and as a doula for the poignant transitions of birth and death. I recommend Holding Space highly for hospice workers, religious and medical professionals, and for anyone facing personal loss.” 

—Jan Chozen Bays, Mindfulness on the Go and Mindful Eating

Why we love it: As we step into a new era of funeral service, we must ask ourselves what it truly means to hold space for death. It’s no longer an option to lean on tradition. Families want more. They demand more. And this book helps you to understand where they’re coming from, and the importance of having the ability to hold space well figured out. Plus, it’s a deeply inspiring read with lots of anecdotal stories along the way.

Who it’s for: The funeral professional who knows tradition isn’t the way anymore, but they’re not sure how to show up and level up their service for their families.

Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience

Review snippet: “This levels the playing field by providing a common language for communicating emotions by helping you understand the nuance between words we often use incorrectly or interchangeably. A valuable relationship tool to understand your own emotions, for parents and teachers to provide children with the opportunity to learn early how to communicate what they’re feeling, for families, partners, leaders… for everyone. Could we reset the culture and start from here, please?”

Why we love it: Brene Brown is one of my favorite authors, so I may be biased, but this book should be a manual for all death care workers. Having the ability to speak to and hold complicated, nuanced emotions and feelings is a super power. And not many of us have that skill naturally. So use this book as an atlas to guide you to have deeper conversations with your families, and show up for them better and more equipped with solid emotional intelligence at play.

Who it’s for: We really recommend this book to funeral professionals who shy away from deep emotions and have a hard time putting language to deeper, nuanced experiences that they’re client families are experiencing.

Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life: Life-Changing Tools for Healthy Relationships

Review snippet: “Marshall Rosenberg’s dynamic communication techniques transform potential conflicts into peaceful dialogues and create compassionate connections. I highly recommend this book.”  

— John Gray, Ph.D., author of Men are From Mars, Women are from Venus

Why we love it: This book is the ABC-123 of conscious communication. The Microsoft CEO requires every leader on his team to read this book and master non-violent communication. Not only will you be more equipped to handle conflicts, but you’ll be better able to mediate any complaints from families. With this book and its skill set offered, you can be a true leader!

Who it’s for: Ideally, a leader in any funeral business or organization, or anyone who considers themselves to be a leader.

Over to you

We hope these books inspire you in some way, or give you hope in some way. When we stop learning, we become stagnant in life and in business. Our prayer is that we all learn and grow together by learning from one another, and leaders in the fields we feel we’re lacking.

What other books have helped you to become a better funeral professional or death care worker? Tell us in the comments below!

Breaking Barriers in Funeral Service: NFDA’s 2024 Professional Women’s Conference Set to Inspire and Connect

Brookfield, Wis. – The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) will bring the profession        together for the 2024 Professional Women’s Conference, April 28 through 30 in picturesque Savannah, Georgia. During this conference attendees representing all facets of the funeral service profession will be empowered to not only sit at the table but lead at the table. Registration is now open.

During this inspiring and uplifting conference, attendees will hear from exceptional speakers covering a wide range of topics:

• Vera Stewart, host of Very Vera, a cooking show about Southern cuisine, will speak about entrepreneurship.
• NFDA Senior Vice President of Advocacy Lesley Witter will show attendees how to use their voice as a force for good that can create change.
• Attendees will learn about suicide risk within the death care profession from Dr. Sara Murphy.
• Dr. Ruth Bedell, an industrial and organizational psychologist, will help attendees understand how they can be more assertive.
• Death educator and Certified Thanatologist Dr. Sara Murphy will discuss how to recognize and respond to suicide risk in the funeral service profession
• Kelly Kohut and Jenny McClanahan from Precoa will discuss the demographic shifts will transform funeral planning and purchasing.
• Award-winning author Jasmine Brett Stringer will explore how attendees can “carpe diem” (seize the day) by unlocking the barriers that keep them from living the life they are intended to have while establishing a personal vision to take them to the next level.
• New York funeral director Amy Cunningham will draw from her experiences serving families in the state of New York and share best practices for helping families plan meaningful green funeral and burial ceremonies.
• Nelson Thulin from Johnson Consulting will share strategies to help attendees navigate and innovate within the shifting dynamics of the funeral service sector.
• Autumn Cooper from The Dodge Company will help attendees refresh their prep room skills.
• And more!

Engaging Discussions and Networking

Professional Women’s Conference attendees will kick off their time together with a Welcome Party that captures the spirit of Savannah. While enjoying complimentary food and drink, guests will experience a fun-filled evening of lively conversation and building bonds with colleagues.

Beyond the Welcome Party, there are countless other opportunities to build relationships with fellow funeral service professionals during the Professional Women’s Conference. “These ladies were wonderful,” said one 2023 conference attendee. “They all touched on things that were very relatable and inspired me to really reflect on the topics afterward. I really felt like they were speaking directly to me.”

Another 2023 attendee noted, “There were so many takeaways. I also liked opportunity to meet other women in our profession, connect with them and learn and be inspired by them.”

Inspiration Award

During the 2024 Professional Women’s Conference, the association will confer the second annual NFDA Inspiration Award. This award will recognize an exceptional individual who has made noteworthy professional contributions to funeral service or a related field.

Nominations for the NFDA Inspiration Award were accepted online from January 15 through February 16, 2024. The ideal nominee is an enterprising individual who consistently takes the initiative to elevate the funeral service profession. They serve as a mentor to colleagues. Their energy and independent spirit serve as an example to others. Their efforts result in significant accomplishments at the local, national and/or international level.

Complete details are available at www.nfda.org/InspirationAward. NFDA is grateful to National Guardian Life Insurance Company for sponsoring the Inspiration Award.

Registration Today

Registration for the 2024 NFDA Professional Women’s Conference opens February 28. Attendees can save when they register by the early-bird deadline of March 28, 2024. Attendees must register for the 2024 NFDA Professional Women’s Conference by April 19.

NFDA has selected a luxurious historic hotel in the heart of Savannah to host the 2024 Professional Women’s Conference. NFDA has secured a limited number of rooms for a discounted rate of $229 plus tax per night. Upon registration for the conference, attendees will receive a confirmation email with details about the hotel and an exclusive reservation link. Room reservations must be made by March 30.

Complete details about the 2024 NFDA Professional Women’s Conference will be available soon at www.nfda.org/pwc, or by calling 800-228-6332 (262-789-1880).

NFDA thanks the 2024 Professional Women’s Conference Sponsors: ASD – Answering Service for Directors; Batesville; Carriage Services; The Dodge Company; Homesteaders Life Company, Kelco; Lisa Baue – Your Funeral Coach; The Messenger Company; National Guardian Life (NGL); Nomis Publications, Inc.; Premier Preneed Marketing; Precoa; Dignity Memorial; Tribute Technology

About NFDA

NFDA is the world’s leading and largest funeral service association, serving more than 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 www.nfda.org.