Scanning for CE Has Never Been Easier!

This year, if you want CE credit for the workshops and events you attend, you must download the NFDA app! Once downloaded, simply scan the QR code on your way out of each workshop or event. App sponsored by Tribute Technology.

Watch for more information on how to get and use the app as we get closer to Convention.

All times shown are Central Time.

NFDA does not endorse and is not responsible for views expressed by the speakers.
Workshop recordings will be available for purchase in the NFDA store.


 
Johnson - Plan for Success Partner with Foresight First Savings Bank Burn Bamboo - Not Cash

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Preconvention Seminar

Certified Celebrant Training (17 CE hours) Seminar Day 3 of 3

Business Operations Customer Service Professional Skills
Glenda Stansbury
InSight Institute
Matt Bailey
President | Bailey Family Funeral Homes

Brought to you by InSight Institute and hosted by NFDA

Registration: Friday 12:30 p.m.

Seminar Day 1: Friday 1 - 6 p.m.
Seminar Day 2: Saturday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Seminar Day 3: Sunday 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.


Set your firm apart from the competition and offer more to the families you serve! As families’ wishes continue to evolve, it is more important than ever to offer a variety of services that meet their needs and exceed their expectations. Fewer families incorporate religious rites into memorial services now so how can you fill that gap? Many funeral homes look to celebrants and find it most economical to train their staff to accommodate this growing demand for customized services. A certified celebrant works with a funeral director to provide a funeral service, memorial service or tribute that is personalized to reflect the personality and life of the deceased. (17 CE hours through InSight Institute)

Separate registration required
This is a 3-day seminar

$945 NFDA members or eligible non-funeral directors
$1,100 nonmember funeral directors

The rates above are for a 3-day seminar. Fee includes light meals and refreshments.

Register Now

8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | 24th Annual Funeral Service Foundation Golf Classic

24th Annual Funeral Service Foundation Golf Classic TPC Louisiana, Avondale, Louisiana

Now in its twenty-fourth year, the Funeral Service Foundation's golf outing has raised more than $1.75 million in support of its mission of investing in people and programs that strengthen funeral service and lift up grieving communities.

Join funeral directors and allied professionals of all skill levels for the Funeral Service Foundation Golf Classic! Held in conjunction with the annual NFDA International Convention & Expo, the shotgun scramble style tournament is one of the best networking opportunities in the profession. 

This year, we'll be hitting the links at TPC Louisiana, part of the PGA Tour's Tournament Players Club network, and host of the Zurich Classic each spring. 

Join the fun as a sponsor or underwriter! Last year alone, more than 65 companies and firms came together to support the profession on the big day.

Separate registration required

Cost per player is $350. Registration includes transportation, tournament fees, food and beverage, and 18 holes of play! For additional costs, you'll be covered to enter contests, club rental, and additional drinks.

Want to support the Foundation, but golf isn’t your game? Simply join as a spectator! Your $150 registration fee allows you to experience all the networking and excitement of the day without the pressure to step up and take a shot. 

Visit FuneralServiceFoundation.org/Golf to register and learn about sponsorship opportunities.

Register Now

8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Preconvention Seminars

Panel Discussion: Ask the Seasoned Professional Embalmer (4 CE Hours)

Technical Skills
Vernie Fountain
CFSP I Embalmer and Post Mortem Reconstructive Surgery Specialist I Fountain Academy
Art Pecht
CFSP, CPC I Embalmer and Post Mortem Reconstructive Surgery Specialist I Mount Sinai Memorial Chapels
Jason Mishler
CFSP I Embalmer and Post Mortem Reconstructive Surgery Specialist I Mishler Embalming and Transit Service
Brooke Gurevich
Program Analyst, PPT, CMAOD I Embalmer and Post Mortem Reconstructive Surgery Specialist I AHRC-PDC-P

Join us for a practical, informative opportunity to explore techniques used by the most extraordinary embalmers. Learn skills and discover resources and products that will help you prepare the best possible farewell for grieving families. (4 CE hours)

Separate registration required

Onsite Registration: 7:30 – 8 a.m.

NFDA members
$205  by September 9, 2024
$225  after September 9, 2024

Nonmember funeral directors
$265  by September 9, 2024
$290  after September 9, 2024

Mortuary students
$100


Safe Zone Training for Funeral Service Professionals (4 CE Hours)

Customer Service
Sara Murphy, PhD, FT
Death Educator, Fellow in Thanatologist, and Suicidologist

The need to strengthen the relationship between the LGBTQ+ community and funeral service has become unprecedentedly visible in recent years. Increasingly, funeral service professionals seek education to fill learning gaps regarding this community in order to meet the needs of clients and staff with grounded and unbiased knowledge, strategies for allyship, and cultural humility. As an internationally recognized, evidence-informed training program, Safe Zone workshops provide attendees with interactive education on LGBTQ+ identities, privilege and biases, cycles of oppression, the coming-out experience, and skill building for allies. Facilitated by an expert in grief and bereavement who is also an experienced Safe Zone trainer, this intensive workshop has been designed specifically to meet the needs of NFDA convention attendees and to address common scenarios for professionals in funeral service. (4 CE hours)

Separate registration required

$205 NFDA members and nonmembers
$75 mortuary students*


11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Workshops (1 CE hour)

Safety in the Care Center

Compliance & Legal
Joel Soelberg
Managing Director | Duncan Stuart Todd Ltd

Take charge of your own safety in the care center. This workshop will empower you to become proactive in meeting key OSHA regulations and making the care center a safer space. (1 CE hour)

In this session, we will cover:

  • Safe Lifting and Ergonomics: Learn about proper lifting techniques and ergonomic resources to prevent back and body injuries – a common concern as the average body weight in America continues to rise.
  • Breathing Safety: OSHA ventilation compliance requires at least 15.5 air exchanges per hour; make sure that formaldehyde laden air is fully “exhausted” via the ductwork to the outside atmosphere.
  • OSHA Safety Equipment: We'll review the proper use and location of emergency showers and eyewash stations, crucial equipment while working with formaldehyde.
  • Chemical Labeling and Safety Signage: Learn how to identify potential hazards and follow safe handling and storage procedures for all chemicals, including everyday cleaning products.
  • Decluttering for a Safer Environment: Discover how a well-organized workspace minimizes clutter, creating clear walkways and reducing the risk of slips, trips, and falls. Gain tips for implementing effective organization strategies.

Beyond the Service: Now What Do I Do?

Consumer Care
Emily Tanner
Founder | Brave Widow

Learn to become a trusted guide for your families, able to walk alongside a grieving spouse long after the service is over. This session provides you with the tools and knowledge to truly support families long-term in a meaningful way. Our resources include:

  • How to identify a liaison who can advocate for and support the spouse/family.
  • A practical checklist of ways that other loved ones can offer genuine help.
  • Alternatives to unhelpful platitudes; and
  • A free guidebook for organizing next steps and tracking assets, benefits, and important tasks.

We will also discuss creative ways to stay connected and how to guide families to valuable resources, as well as future options such as memorials that commemorate anniversaries. Never be at a loss again when a grieving spouse asks post-service, “Now what do I do?” (1 CE hour)


The 1800’s Undertaker

History
Steve Person
Retired Funeral Director

Take a fascinating look back through history with the Victorian Undertaker. Learn about the tools of the trade and customs of the day and how the role of an Undertaker from the 1800’s evolved into the role we know today as a Funeral Director. (1 CE hour)


Insights to Action Using Consumer Data to Guide Your Business Model

Consumer Care
Doug Gober
Partner | Foresight

For five years, Foresight has surveyed consumers to uncover attitudes and behaviors regarding funeral service. The goal of this research has been to deliver meaningful and fact-based data to educate our profession on consumer trends. Recently, we’ve also begun surveying funeral professionals regarding their perceptions of consumer attitudes and we’ve revealed an important disconnect. What we found was a profession not responding to and, in some cases, actively avoiding, how consumers want to do business…a profession too often resisting changes in the marketplace without a long-term strategic plan on how to handle a new, evolving and less “traditional” consumer.

This session will dive into the data, highlight the most critical information and explore the future of funeral service by providing a snapshot into the attitudes and behaviors of your consumer. (1 CE hour)


12:30 – 3:30 p.m. | Special Event

The "Big Easy" Private City Tour

Tour New Orleans with a local guide and see the city like a local. Visit popular sites, hidden gems and hear the stories that make the Big Easy what it is. Uncover a rich past and marvel at the vibrant community that thrives today.

Separate registration required
Register Now

12:30 – 4:30 p.m. | Special Event

A Taste of New Orleans Tour

Sold Out

Culinary treats await on this mouthwatering tour. Enjoy tasty cuisine at several top restaurants, as well as food you can only experience in New Orleans. Your taste buds will thank you!

Separate registration required
Registration for this event is closed.

1:15 – 2:15 p.m. | Workshops (1 CE hour)

Emaciation: The Forgotten Restoration

Embalming and Restorative Art
John T. Hill
Funeral Director and Embalmer | James Funeral Home

Emaciated cases present unique challenges for funeral professionals. This workshop will equip you with the skills and techniques to confidently restore emaciated decedents and offer families the opportunity of open casket viewing. We'll discuss the emotional impact of severe weight loss on families and how we can approach conversations with compassion and sensitivity. You’ll gain knowledge of specialized embalming procedures for emaciated cases, including tissue rehydration and pressure point management.

Discover innovative cosmetic techniques to achieve a natural, peaceful appearance, and explore advanced padding and support methods to create a healthy, natural, and dignified appearance, allowing all families to see their loved one in a better way. (1 CE hour)


Master the Art of Community Events

Marketing
Tyler Anderson
Senior Vice President, Business Development | Precoa

Does the idea of putting on a “community event” get you excited or make you want to run for the hills? 

A successful event is one of the best ways for your funeral home to engage new families and establish yourself as a thought leader in your community, but there are also many challenges and potential pitfalls. With proven strategies and popular examples drawn from over 2,200 events held in the past year alone, you’ll learn key tactics to drive interest, increase attendance and make every community event a success. (1 CE hour)


The Synergy of Funeral Professionals and Death Doulas

Consumer Care
Ashley Johnson
Founder | Loyal Hands LLC
Joél Simone Maldonado
Founder I The Black Death, Grief, and Cultural Care Academy

Embark on a transformative journey as we explore the world of death doulas and their collaborative role in creating a deeply profound end-of-life experience. In this session, we will uncover the extraordinary ways in which the doula’s distinct skill set seamlessly intertwines with traditional funeral services. Learn about the historical roots of death doulas and the evolution of their practices. Discover how adding the role of a death doula can help you reshape the way you approach end-of-life support, offering families a more comprehensive and compassionate experience. (1 CE hour)


Dare to Use Your Imagination

Innovation Technology
Joe E. Pray
Creationeer | Pray Funeral Home

Many of today's families are opting for personalized celebrations of life, often leading them down the path of DIY planning. We’ll explore the evolving mindset of the modern funeral consumer and their desire for unique, personalized experiences, and we’ll identify motivating factors such as perceived cost concerns and incomplete understanding of what funeral professionals offer. Our primary discussion will focus on how the arrangement meeting can be an opportunity for creative ideas; you will have the chance to exercise your own imagination while outlining an imaginative service based on a given scenario. This session, led by award-winning Joe E. Pray (five-time Keeping It Personal Winner), will equip you with the tools to craft unforgettable celebrations of life. (1 CE hour)


Creating Ambience in Funeral Service

Professional Development
Todd Reinholt
Funeral Director, Funeral Celebrant, Grief Recovery Specialist | Life Celebrants International

A staggering 93% of our communication with the families we serve in the funeral professional is non-verbal. Everything from our attire and body language to the ambiance of the funeral home sends powerful messages about our service quality. Every touchpoint, from the parking area and exterior to the entrance and lobby, contributes to the impressions we make. The design and comfort level of the facility, as well as elements like service programs, multimedia presentations, and the arrangement of caskets and urns, all play a role in shaping the experience for families and mourners alike. (1 CE hour)


2:30 – 3:30 p.m. | Workshops (1 CE hour)

The Result Is In! An Update on the EPA Formaldehyde Review and What It Means for Your Firm and the Profession

Business Operations
Lesley Witter
Senior Vice President, Advocacy | NFDA
Dr. Marisa Kreider, PhD, DABT
Senior Principal Health Scientist | Stantec Consulting Services Inc.
Laura Allen, MS, CIH
Supervising Health Scientist/ ESG Advisor | Stantec Consulting Services, Inc.

Recently the EPA released their draft formaldehyde risk assessment including their proposed new formaldehyde exposure limit. Join Lesley Witter, Dr. Marisa Kreider, and Laura Allen to discuss the implications for your business and funeral service.


Honoring Unclaimed Remains

Disposition
Lanae Strovers
Trainer | NFDA

Funeral professionals are witnessing a significant increase in cremations with no burial, often resulting in unclaimed urns. This session tackles this sensitive topic head-on, exploring ways to address forgotten urns while raising your funeral home's profile in the community. Together we’ll explore effective ways to engage with your community by offering meaningful memorials for children, civilians, and veterans (and/or spouses). Our experience demonstrates a significant rise in pre-planning inquiries following these services; not only do they provide closure for unclaimed urns but also foster strong relationships with community groups, businesses, and potential clients. (1 CE hour)


Embracing the Digital Frontier

Innovation Technology
Court Bluford
Founder | Lissiland

In this engaging presentation, industry veteran Court Bluford will guide you on a journey to transform your funeral business in the digital age. We’ll explore cutting-edge technologies like NFC tags, mobile apps and automated communication to elevate funeral services. Learn innovative tools akin to Uber-like services for efficient deliveries and hearse coordination, enhancing logistics and client experiences. Delve into tech-driven strategies for fostering enduring connections with clients through personalized interactions, nurturing trust, and loyalty. Uncover tactics for harnessing social media and online platforms to unlock unique revenue streams and fortify your funeral home’s digital footprint. (1 CE hour)


Compassionate Services: Sensitive Funerals for Families on the Autism Spectrum

Professional Development
Timothy Copeland
Funeral Service Consultant

This presentation is a comprehensive guide for funeral directors seeking to enhance their understanding and support for families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We'll begin with an exploration of ASD, delving into its diverse characteristics and potential challenges faced by individuals and their families during the grieving process. You will gain valuable insights into effective communication strategies tailored to meet the unique needs of those on the autism spectrum. Practical guidance on creating inclusive and accommodating funeral environments, including physical space modifications and sensory sensitivity considerations, will be provided.

We will also address the importance of cultural competence, fostering empathy toward the experiences of individuals with ASD and their families. Through case studies and interactive discussions, you will develop adaptable and compassionate approaches to funeral services, ultimately improving customer satisfaction and positioning your business as a leader in inclusive and sensitive funeral care. (1 CE hour)


4:00 – 5:00 p.m. | ReConnect

ReConnect The Porch (Outside Hall I)

Join us for an exclusive event tailored specifically for women in the funeral service. Whether you’re a past attendee of our Professional Women’s Conference or new to our community, this is your chance to reconnect with familiar faces and forge new friendships.

  • Networking Opportunities: Engage with fellow funeral directors and industry professionals in a supportive and welcoming environment.
    • Inspiring conversations
    • Share experiences, challenges, and successes
  • Building Camaraderie: Enjoy a relaxed setting designed to foster genuine connections and a sense of togetherness.
  • Fabulous Giveaways: Get to know fellow attendees with fun games, fabulous prizes, and a little something special to take with you to enjoy during Convention!
  • 2025 PWC Reveal: Find out where and when the next Professional Women's Conference will be!
  • Inspiration at Its Best: Meet and learn from Leili McMurrough, the 2024 Inspiration Award winner.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to strengthen your professional network and be part of a community that celebrates and supports women in funeral service.

This event is graciously sponsored by NGL. RSVP is required - please email cvondenbergh@nfda.org for more information. Open to convention attendees only

“I am thrilled to host this premier event, offering a unique opportunity to reconnect with and meet like-minded women in Funeral Service who have become and will become lifelong friends. NGL is proud to support this effort as the ReConnect sponsor, as well as the sponsor of the NFDA Inspiration Award.

The 2024 Professional Women’s Conference sparked many important conversations about innovative solutions to current challenges in Death Care. Now in its third year, ReConnect serves as the perfect venue to continue those discussions with past PWC attendees as well as all women in funeral service and kick off your convention week with a fun, engaging start.”

Jennifer Kaset

Jennifer Kaset
VP, Sales and Business Development 
National Guardian Life Insurance Company (NGL)

Sponsored by

4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. | Movie Screening

Another Life Room 292

"Another Life" is a movie about the ups and downs in the life of a funeral director named Danny Jefferson, a man with hearing disability who finds solace, comfort, and comedy in the back of an embalming room.

Director Dean Jones will be on hand to introduce the film and answer questions following the screening.


6:00 – 8:00 p.m. | Welcome Party

Welcome Party Mardi Gras World

1380 Port of New Orleans Place, New Orleans
6:00 – 7:00 p.m. in the Float Den 
7:00 – 8:00 p.m. in the River City Ballroom


Mardi Gras World offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the creation of dazzling Mardi Gras floats. Amidst amazing music, attendees can indulge in delightful hors d'oeuvres and refreshing beverages, including the iconic New Orleans Hurricane. Kick off your convention in style and connect with friends old and new during this free event!