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.

“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.

Revolutionize Your Approach to Leadership and Growth at MKJ Marketing’s 2025 Winter Summit

WAUNAKEE, WI — Tribute Technology and MKJ Marketing are proud to co-sponsor the 2025 Winter Summit, a premier event for funeral professionals seeking cutting-edge strategies to grow their businesses and elevate their leadership. This exclusive event will be held Feb. 3-5, 2025, at the luxurious Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa in Beaver Creek, Colorado.

With a shared commitment to innovation and professional growth, Tribute Technology and MKJ Marketing have designed this event to deliver actionable insights, impactful networking, and an unparalleled experience in a breathtaking alpine setting.

Featured speaker Richard J. Bryan, a renowned Leadership Keynote Speaker, Business Growth Strategist, and Succession Planning Expert, will share proven strategies to manage leadership transitions, prepare successors, and preserve a lasting legacy. His expertise, drawn from decades of real-world experience, will inspire attendees to reimagine the future of their businesses.

Additional sessions will address today’s most relevant topics, including:

• Automated Outreach: Streamline Follow-Ups and Boost Engagement
• Profit-Driven Pricing: Crafting Packages That Captivate and Convert
• Reading the Economic Indicators: Making Acquisitions and Preparing for Sale
• Harnessing AI for Content: Achieve Efficiency While Preserving the Human Touch
• Staying Ahead in Social Media: Trends to Drive Engagement
• Effective Payment Conversations: Proven Ways to Talk to Families About Costs
• Preneed Trends 2025: Innovative Strategies Driving Sales and Building Trust

The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa provides the perfect mix of luxury and adventure. Located at the base of Beaver Creek Mountain, the resort offers elegant accommodations, a world-class spa, and outdoor activities like skiing and snowmobiling. Whether you’re attending for professional growth or bringing the whole family for a winter getaway, this venue offers something for everyone.

Sponsors of the Winter Summit include ASD, OneRoom, Cremation Recycling, Elevia, Legacy Touch, Homesteaders Life Company, C&J Financial, and Treasured Memories.

Attendees can take advantage of an exclusive group rate available only for this event. Rooms are filling up fast, so secure your accommodations today by calling 888-655-1566. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from industry leaders, build connections, and transform your business. Visit www.mkjmarketing.com/beaver-creek-2025 for more information.

About Tribute Technology:

Tribute Technology’s mission is to bring the best technology to all funeral homes, to help communities around the world celebrate life, and to pay tribute to loved ones. Over 9,000 end-of-life providers already use Tribute Technology’s software and product offerings, including websites, marketing services, management software, online planning, personalized memorial keepsakes, payment processing, and other solutions. Tribute Technology is focused on innovating to help funeral directors save time on tasks, so they can focus more on connecting with the families who have lost a loved one. The company’s goal is to give funeral directors everything they need to run their business in one place, making their lives easier.

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.

ICCFA Wraps Up 2024 Leadership Summit, Unveils Exciting Changes for 2025

STERLING, Va. (Nov. 6, 2024) – The International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) recently concluded its 2024 Leadership Summit, held Oct. 15-17 at the St. Anthony Hotel in San Antonio, Texas. With 120 deathcare professionals in attendance, the summit provided hands-on learning, growth and networking opportunities.

Summit Highlights

The 2024 Leadership Summit featured transformative sessions designed to equip leaders with innovative insights and tools:

• Educational Excellence: Christie Pink of The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center facilitated “A Culture of Excellence: Building Success from Within,” captivating attendees with strategies to elevate employee engagement and customer experience.
• Brave Leadership: Executive coach Kristi Mallory presented “Brave Leadership Through Boundaries and Beyond,” which focused on empathetic, resilient leadership.
• Advocacy and Legal Updates: The Government & Legal Affairs Committee shared critical updates on legislative and regulatory issues impacting the deathcare profession.

Networking and Social Events

Attendees enjoyed a range of networking events, including:

• A golf tournament at Brackenridge Park.
• A wine tasting featuring local selections from Becker Vineyards.
• An open discussion hosted by the Women in Leadership (WIL) Committee following the wine tasting, open to all attendees.
• A tour of Mission Park Funeral Chapels, Cemeteries, and Crematories offered insights into the historic and modern practices of San Antonio’s oldest family-owned cemetery.

Scholarship Winner Testimonial

The ICCFA Educational Foundation awarded scholarships to emerging leaders to attend the summit. Pierce Dempsey, a scholarship recipient from Leaf Cremation, shared his experience: 

“Attending the ICCFA Leadership Summit was a fantastic experience, packed with insights and real connections. Hearing from Christie Pink from The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center was especially inspiring—she had incredible insight into delivering top-notch service with organizational excellence. Beyond the presentations, the best part was probably the group discussions. Sitting down with other owners and leaders, we shared challenges and swapped solutions, learning directly from each other’s experiences. It was also a great chance to connect with others in the industry and build relationships that I know will be valuable going forward. Overall, it was time well spent with people who get what we do and want to make it better.”

DEAD Talks Returns to Las Vegas

ICCFA is excited to announce the return of DEAD Talks, the annual sales conference scheduled for Feb. 4-6, 2025, at the Park MGM in Las Vegas. DEAD Talks will feature:

• Keynote Speaker: Matthew Pollard, an internationally recognized consultant, speaker, and entrepreneur known for his expertise in rapid business growth. Founder of Rapid Growth LLC, Pollard has built five multimillion-dollar businesses and transformed over 3,500 small businesses. He is the bestselling author of The Introvert’s Edge and has been featured on FOX, NBC and top podcasts.
• Keynote Speaker: Arthur Sarkissian, an experienced Learning and Development professional and founder of Here and Now Consulting. Sarkissian brings over 12 years of global leadership experience with Starwood Hotels & Resorts and specializes in Convergence Executive Coaching. He helps senior leaders unlock team potential, manage stress triggers, and build high-performing teams. His keynote will offer insights into fostering resilient teams and driving organizational success.
• Latest Trends: Insights into recent innovations shaping the industry.
• Networking Opportunities: Connections with peers and industry experts.
• Actionable Takeaways: Practical strategies for immediate impact on sales and growth.

Announcing “The ICCFA Experience” – A New Approach for 2025

In April 2025, ICCFA will debut “The ICCFA Experience,” a reimagined Annual Convention & Expo, April 15-18 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Highlights include:

• Extended Expo Hours: More time to explore industry innovations.
• Educational Sessions in the Expo Hall: Interactive learning experiences on the expo floor.
• Keynote Speaker: Clint Pulver, a renowned speaker, author and workplace culture expert known for his motivational insights into employee retention and engagement. Known as “The Undercover Millennial,” Pulver has inspired audiences globally by helping leaders create workplaces where people stay not out of obligation but because they want to. His keynote will offer strategies to foster engagement, trust and a purpose-driven workplace.

Attendees can expect a revitalized event with fresh content and insights tailored to the deathcare profession.

Save the Date: 2025 Leadership Summit in Knoxville, Tennessee

The 2025 Leadership Summit is scheduled for Oct. 21-23 at the Marriott Knoxville Downtown in Knoxville, Tennessee. The summit promises more transformative sessions, networking and professional development.

For more details on ICCFA’s upcoming events, visit https://iccfa.com/iccfa-events. ICCFA looks forward to welcoming attendees to DEAD Talks, The ICCFA Experience and the Leadership Summit in Knoxville.

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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.

Join Us in San Antonio for the 2024 ICCFA Leadership Summit!

STERLING, VA (September 23, 2024)—The International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association (ICCFA) is excited to announce the 2024 ICCFA Leadership Summit, which will be held from October 15 to 17, 2024, at the prestigious St. Anthony Hotel in San Antonio, Texas. This year’s summit, designed with the utmost respect for your time and effort, promises to offer unparalleled opportunities for education, networking, and professional development tailored to today’s deathcare professionals’ unique challenges and needs.

What to Expect:

This year’s summit will feature insightful educational sessions, interactive workshops, and panel-style discussions led by some of the industry’s most respected leaders. Attendees will gain actionable insights on building a culture of excellence, leading with courage, and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the deathcare profession, equipping them with practical strategies for their professional journey.

Key Highlights Include:

• Exclusive Educational Opportunities:
  • The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center will facilitate a hands-on workshop, “A Culture of Excellence: Building Success from Within,” focused on best practices for empowering employees and enhancing the customer experience.
  • Brave Leadership Through Boundaries and Beyond, a powerful session with executive coach Kristi Mallory, where attendees will learn to lead with empathy, competence, and courage.
• Advocacy and Legal Updates:
  • Stay informed about the latest regulatory developments with a Government & Legal Affairs Committee Meeting & Update. The session is open to all attendees and will feature discussions on current legislative priorities impacting the deathcare profession, moderated by industry experts.
• Networking & Social Events:
  • Welcome Reception: Connect with colleagues and industry leaders while enjoying stunning views from the St. A Sky Terrace.
  • ICCFA Golf Tournament: Play at the beautiful Brackenridge Park Golf Course in a 4-person scramble, with transportation provided to and from the course.
  • Wine Tasting: Unwind at The St. Anthony Hotel while sampling an exquisite selection of wines from Becker Vineyard.
  • Optional Off-Site Property Tour: Join us to tour Mission Park Funeral Chapels, Cemeteries & Crematories, the oldest family-owned cemetery in San Antonio and the first perpetual care cemetery in Texas. The tour begins at Mission Park Funeral Chapels and Cemetery Dominion, featuring memorials from the late 1800s. It concludes at the new, state-of-the-art Mission Park Funeral & Life Center NW Facility, which is not yet open to the public.

Why Attend?

• Advocacy: Learn about key legislative and regulatory efforts shaping the future of the deathcare profession and discover how you can get involved.
• Networking: Engage with fellow professionals, make lasting connections, and exchange ideas with industry leaders during exclusive receptions and social events.
• Education: Through hands-on sessions led by renowned experts, you can elevate your leadership skills and gain valuable tools to transform your organization.

Registration Information:

Online registration will remain open until September 26, 2024, at 11:59 PM EDT. Secure your spot today for this transformative event!

• Member Price: $905
• Non-Member Price: $1,105

Hotel Accommodations: The St. Anthony Hotel offers a luxurious and historic stay in the heart of San Antonio. Rooms in the ICCFA block are available at a discounted rate of $239 per night (excluding taxes and fees) and can be booked until September 20, 2024, at 11:59 PM EDT. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience one of San Antonio’s premier hotels!

For more information on the event, including the full agenda and registration details, visit https://iccfa.com/fall/. We welcome you to San Antonio for the 2024 ICCFA Leadership Summit!

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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 comprises more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home and crematory industries, supplier and related businesses worldwide.