NFDA News

From exploring the human of tomorrow to a behind-the-scenes look at Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral, NFDA will bring together leaders from state and national funeral service associations – and future leaders in the profession – to explore where funeral service has been and where it is going during the 2023 Leadership Conference, taking place June 25-28 at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, Arizona. The deadline to book your hotel room is Tuesday, May 30. 

During the 2023 Leadership Conference, attendees will hear from a variety of experts and leaders – both from outside of and within funeral service – who will help them explore how leaders can learn from the past in order to pave the way for a bright future. These experts include Cassie Chandler, a leadership expert and former FBI special agent assistant director, and Bob Harris, one of the country’s foremost association management experts. Attendees will also hear from Tim Purves, whose funeral home was entrusted with looking after the Scottish element of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral arrangements, and Lynda Cheldelin Fell, an expert on compassion fatigue and burnout. 

Attendees can also learn about leadership opportunities with NFDA, see the election of the 2023-25 At-large Representatives, celebrate the graduation of the 2022-23 class of NFDA’s National Emerging Leaders Program, and take part in the popular “Breakouts by Office” discussions. 

Attendees can kick off their Leadership Conference experience on June 25 by hitting the links at Grayhawk Golf Club. Established in 1994, Grayhawk Golf Club offers high quality play and spectacular views of the Sonoran Desert. It has hosted competitive tournaments at the highest levels of professional and amateur golf but is an entertaining course for the weekend golfer (optional event; registration required). 

Also on June 25, attendees are invited to reconnect with old friends and make new ones during the complimentary Welcome Reception. 

On the evening of June 27, attendees will gather for A Southwest Soiree at the renowned Heard Museum of American Indian Art. The Heard Museum sets the standard for collaborating with American Indian artists and tribal communities to provide visitors with a distinctive perspective about the art of Native people, especially those from the Southwest. Attendees can explore this internationally recognized museum while enjoying delectable southwestern cuisine and refreshing beverages. To round out their experience at The Heard Museum, attendees will take in performances by Native American musicians and dancers (optional event; registration required). 

After attending education sessions in the morning, Leadership Conference attendees have the afternoon to relax, network and enjoy Phoenix. Whether they want to explore nature, indulge in a shopping excursion, tour art museums or savor Phoenix’s unique cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Attendees can begin planning their adventure by visiting www.visitphoenix.com.  

Attendees can see the schedule for the conference, learn about the speakers and register for the Leadership Conference online at www.nfda.org/leadership or by calling NFDA at 800-228-6332. 

Building on the legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural style, the Arizona Biltmore has been transformed into a resort of innovative delight. Updated with a chic edge of its very own, the Biltmore is for those seeking elegant adventures beautifully wrapped in a level of personalized service and attention to detail not typically found in resorts of this size. The Biltmore offers seven pools, an on-site golf course, curated retail shops and daily resort activities. Other resort amenities include fitness center access with fitness classes; guest room internet; one-hour cruiser bike use, daily; and admittance to “The Twist” water slide. Rooms may be reserved in the NFDA block for a discounted rate of $199 plus taxes and fees per night at www.nfda.org/leadership. Hotel rooms must be booked by Tuesday, May 30.