2025 Professional Women’s Conference
May 15 – 18, 2025 I Santa Ana Pueblo, NM
190 dedicated women in funeral service met at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa in Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico for four days filled with inspiration, learning, and comradery.
Special thanks to The Funeral Service Foundation for making the conference even more accessible by offering 20 all-inclusive David C. Baue NFDA Professional Women's Conference Scholarships.
View a photo album of our time together.
Speakers
Chrissy May
Chrissy is a dynamic keynote speaker, personal development specialist, and transformational therapist with a passion for helping others overcome adversity and live a life they truly love. With a rich background as a former competitive figure-skater and fitness champion, Chrissy has navigated her own challenges by embarking on a deep spiritual journey. Over 25 years in the health and wellness industry and more than a decade as a real estate advisor have refined her unique insights, which she now shares as a guide for both personal and professional evolution. As the host of the Aligned + Alive Podcast, Chrissy empowers her audience to explore life’s meaning and purpose. Each week, she offers practical tools and strategies to elevate your life, supported by real-life testimonies and authentic stories from herself and her inspiring guests. Her work is a guidebook for navigating life’s complexities, offering wisdom on healing, mental health, and manifesting new realities. Chrissy’s expertise and engaging presence have made her a sought-after speaker, known for her ability to inspire action and facilitate alignment in every aspect of life. Whether through her podcast, speaking engagements, or social media presence, Chrissy May is dedicated to helping you connect, align, and thrive. Follow her journey on Instagram @TheChrissyMay for daily inspiration and deeper connection.
Dawn D. Tryba, MBA, CPMBC, CMC, PMP
Dawn is a dynamic, ambitious, and accomplished leader who builds trust and consensus to implement lasting change while maintaining a contagious, positive attitude, and unwavering work ethic. Mrs. Tryba has become a genuine expert, with a wealth of business knowledge and extensive professional experience spanning over three decades. Dawn and her team have served a wide variety of industries, delivering superior performance with consistent, concrete, and successful results. As a life-long learner, she is recognized as a thought leader, in-demand motivational speaker, and author of numerous books, articles, and whitepapers.
Lanae Strovers
Lanae serves as the Trainer for NFDA and delivers the NFDA Arranger Training suite of education opportunities. She is a first-generation funeral director and strives to help families personalize services honoring their loved one. She was called to funeral service after the death of a close friend whose “cookie-cutter” funeral didn’t tell his story. She knew there was a better way. Lanae graduated from Des Moines Area Community College with honors in 2012 and has served at Hamilton’s Funeral Home since then. During her time at Hamilton’s, she initiated a program for unclaimed remains, gaining national attention. Lanae is also known for her personalized touch for each family she serves – turning the funeral home into a baseball field, a gaming room, or a classy runway show with a pianist…Lanae will do whatever she can do to help make that service unique and special, reflecting who that person was in life!
Tina Paulus–Krause
Tina is a visionary leader and catalyst for change with over 30 years of experience empowering individuals and teams to unlock their full potential. From navigating the corporate world to embracing entrepreneurship, Tina blends strategic thinking with a deep understanding of human behavior to help others thrive. Her transformative workshops, coaching, and speaking engagements guide participants on a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and collective success. Tina’s mission is simple: transformation begins within, and by nurturing the individual, we build stronger teams, healthier organizations, and connected families.
Jamie M. Hasty
Jamie is a Vice President with SESCO Management Consultants. Jamie is a Generalist consultant in all areas of human resource management with specialties in affirmative action, policy development, wage and hour accounting, employment regulation compliance, training and development, compensation and performance management systems, employee satisfaction assessments, executive screening and placement, and general human resources consulting. She regularly conducts management training for clients and serves as guest speaker for state and national associations. Jamie is a certified trainer for Vital Learning Corporation, John Maxwell and SESCO Leadership Institute.
Autumn Cooper
Autumn is a Michigan native who currently resides in Rhode Island. She serves as sales representative with The Dodge Company, covering Connecticut and Western Massachusetts alongside her role as part time chemist for the company, a position she has held since 2020. Autumn holds both a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mortuary Science, as well as a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biomedical Sciences. She also serves as an Instructional Assistant for the Mortuary Science Program at Wayne State University. She is a licensed funeral director and embalmer in the states of Michigan and Rhode Island. When she’s not on the road visiting funeral homes or spending time in the lab, she enjoys collecting house plants, playing volleyball, practicing yoga, and cooking.
Lesley Witter
Lesley Witter, MPA, CAE, is NFDA’s Senior Vice President, Advocacy. In her role as NFDA’s federal lobbyist she oversees all government relations efforts, political action committee activities, legislative and regulatory programs, the work performed by law firms and outside lobbyists on behalf of the association and its members. Lesley is a Certified Association Executive and has a bachelor’s degree in government and international relations and a master’s degree in public administration from George Mason University. She has been with NFDA since 2007.
Leili McMurrough
Leili is the President of Worsham College of Mortuary Science, leading one of the nation's top mortuary science programs. A licensed funeral director, embalmer, and attorney, she combines legal expertise with hands-on industry experience. Leili holds degrees from Lehigh University, Syracuse University College of Law, and the Simmons Institute of Funeral Service. She has served as Chair of the Committee on Accreditation for the American Board of Funeral Service Education and is a Trustee of the Funeral Service Foundation. Leili is also co-owner of McMurrough Funeral Chapel in Libertyville, Illinois, and a sought-after speaker on funeral service topics.
Carolina Panoff
Carolina is a life coach and founder of Be You Disco, a team-building company that integrates music, movement, and mindfulness to foster authenticity and well-being. Drawing from The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and Brene Brown's work on vulnerability, she helps transform company cultures by promoting connection, empathy, and belonging. Recognized by Meetings Today as a top team-building activity, Be You Disco creates tailored experiences that inspire collaboration and personal growth. Carolina's mission is to help individuals and teams thrive, working with Fortune 500 companies to redefine corporate wellness and engagement.
Anna Nesbit
Anna is a licensed funeral director and owner at Soxman Funeral Homes, Ltd., east of Pittsburgh, PA. After earning her bachelor's degree in business administration from Slippery Rock University, Anna attended the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science form which she graduated in 2007. Since then, Anna continued her professional development by earning CFSP, CPC, Licensed Insurance Producer, and Celebrant certifications. She serves on the Board of Directors for the local Chamber of Commerce and leads the preneed and aftercare programs at her funeral home as well as hosting speaking events featuring Lilo, the bereavement care dog.
Emily K. Howard
Emily is the Executive Director of Economic Forum, an association of influential leaders committed to elevating the economic vitality of Albuquerque. She is also Founder/President of Cheetah Strategy, providing strategic planning and brand consulting services. Previously, she led brand and business strategy for Visit Albuquerque, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, McKee Wallwork, Esparza, and DDB Worldwide. Passionate about bringing ideas to life and fostering collaboration, Emily is a driving force in the Albuquerque community. She co-founded the “Start Bragging” movement, co-hosts the “Positive Not Perfect” radio show, and serves on various boards. She is a TCU alum/letterwinner and enjoys spending time with her family and staying active.
Nectar L. Ramirez
Nectar was born and raised in Puerto Rico. She earned a BS in Industrial Engineering from Purdue University in 1990. She attained an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University in 1996 and a Master’s in Human Resource Development at Xavier University in 2019. Nectar worked as a consultant identifying and teaching best practices to Fortune 500 companies. She joined Batesville Casket Company in 2002. While in Batesville she was the Manager of Market Research, Sales Director Northeast, Sales Director of Cremation, and finally the National Director of Funeral Home Training. She has worked closely with hundreds of funeral homes, helping them turnaround their cremation and burial business. Many of the funeral homes saw an improvement of over 30% in their cremation revenue. In April 2020, she became the Senior Vice President for Pre-Need at Forest Lawn Memorial Parks and Mortuaries in Los Angeles, CA. She has published several articles in industry publications and other associations. She has been presenting Education programs at state and national levels for 22 years.
Agenda
Thursday, May 15
4:30 – 5:15 p.m.
Badge Pick-Up
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Welcome Reception
Kick off the conference in style at our Welcome Reception, where you'll experience culture, connection, and celebration. Enjoy a tamales and tostadas bar and classic Mexican churros dessert inspired by local flavors. Enjoy a Pueblo Greeting which includes a handmade necklace. Experience the traditional Pueblo Dancers with a vibrant performance, and get a taste of the rich traditions that make this destination unique. This is the perfect opportunity to mingle with fellow attendees, soak in the atmosphere, and set the tone for an unforgettable conference.
Sponsored by NGL
Friday, May 16
7:30 – 8:00 a.m.
Badge Pick-Up / Breakfast
8:00 – 8:30 a.m.
Welcome
8:30 – 10:00 a.m.
Turning Setbacks into Comebacks: MINDSET OF CHAMPIONS
Dawn D. Tryba, MBA, CPMBC, CMC, PMP
In this engaging and interactive session, you will explore how to reframe setbacks and failures as powerful steppingstones toward success. By cultivating a champion’s mindset, you will learn to embrace challenges, foster resilience, and unlock your full potential both personally and professionally.
Sponsored by Carriage
10:00 – 10:15 a.m.
Break
10:15 - 10:45 a.m.
Inspiration Award Presentation and Funeral Service Foundation Scholarship Recognition
Inspiration Award sponsored by NGL
10:45 – 11:45 a.m.
Real Talk: Self-Care, Relationships and Growth
Leili McMurrough and Anna Nesbit
In this session, Leili McMurrough and Anna Nesbit will explore the vital role of self-care, the power of support networks, and the journey of personal growth. They will discuss how to redefine self-care beyond traditional concepts and share practical strategies for recognizing when we've overextended ourselves; both inside and outside of the workplace. The discussion will include building and relying on a supportive network, the importance of asking for help, and navigating real-time conversations with family. Participants will leave with actionable strategies to better balance their personal and professional lives.
Sponsored by NextGen Legacy Planning
11:45 – 12:00 p.m.
Break Announcements
12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
Lunch Break (On Your Own)
1:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Balancing Grief, Family Dynamics, and Financial Conversations in Funeral Service
Lanae Strovers
Funeral Directors are faced with many difficult conversations, from family dynamics to tough financial decisions. Join Lanae for a hands on and interactive discussion about how to serve families through this difficult time.
Sponsored by Tukios
4:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Offsite Passages Tour
Join us for an offsite visit and tour of Passages International's head offices. Buses will leave the hotel and transport you to Passages' main US offices where you will learn what makes them the global leaders in sustainable and eco-friendly funeral solutions. The event will include drinks, hors d'oeuvres and a tour of their 30,000 square foot operation. You will meet several of their team, learn how their many products and services can benefit the families you serve, your business and the planet. This unique opportunity will include a "behind the scenes" look at how products are made and customized.
The Passages event will be followed by dinner (included with your registration fee) and continued networking at a well-known local New Mexican restaurant where margaritas and other cocktails will be available. Buses should be back at the hotel by 8:00 p.m.
Sponsored by Passages, Better Place Forests, and French Funerals & Cremations
Saturday, May 17
7:30 – 8:00 a.m.
Breakfast
8:00 – 8:30 a.m.
Welcome
8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
The Art of Self-Reflection: Harnessing the Power of YOU
Tina Paulus-Krause
Self-reflection is a powerful, often overlooked leadership skill that can significantly enhance your effectiveness, team growth, and overall success. Leaders who regularly practice self-reflection and emotional intelligence are proven to have 90% more influence on their teams and foster higher engagement, according to TalentSmart. By embracing self-reflection as a key leadership tool, you can evolve continuously and drive meaningful results. In this session, you’ll explore your leadership style, uncover your strengths and “shadows,” and show you how to leverage both to enhance personal growth, improve relationships, and achieve better outcomes in your career and organization.
Sponsored by Funeral Women Lead
10:30 – 10:45 a.m.
Break
10:45 – 11:45 a.m.
Breakout Session
Breakout 1: Escaping Perfectionism
Emily K. Howard
Perfectionism is a condition with which many women struggle. At times, the pressure to be perfect can feel daunting and even lonely. Emily, a business leader, wife, mother, and friend will offer her thoughts, ideas, and personal stories of how to escape perfectionism and embrace the perfect, non-perfect person you are.
Breakout 2: Balanced Leadership: Driving High Performance with Empathy
Nectar L. Ramirez
Servant leadership is all about putting the needs of others first, but that doesn't mean you neglect your own well-being in the process. In our industry, so driven to serve, when you're in a position of leadership, creating a balance between caring for others and taking care of yourself is key to sustaining long-term success.
Sponsored by Precoa
11:45 – 12:00 p.m.
Lunch Announcements
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Lunch
Sponsored by Homesteaders
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Breakout Session
Breakout 1: Integrating AI in Human Resource Systems: Legal Considerations and Ongoing Training Strategies
Jamie Hasty
This session explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in human resources systems, focusing on both its benefits and the critical legal considerations that HR professionals must navigate. Participants will gain insights into leveraging AI tools effectively while ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Additionally, the session will address strategies for ongoing soft skills training necessary to manage these advanced systems efficiently amidst busy work schedules.
Breakout 2: Creative Applications: A New Approach for Mastering the Prep-Room and Beyond
Autumn Cooper
This engaging presentation will explore innovative techniques and practical tips for the embalming room. Autumn will probe into best practices for effective embalming, share expert tricks to enhance your workflow, and uncover surprising off-label uses for embalming products. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, this session will provide valuable insights to elevate your skills and expand your embalming toolkit.
Sponsored by Dodge
2:30 – 2:45 p.m.
Break
2:45 – 3:45 p.m.
Recharge, Reconnect, and Revitalize with Be You Disco
Carolina Panoff
Be You Disco offers a one-of-a-kind wellness experience designed to help destress, recharge, and reconnect. Through an immersive blend of music, movement, and mindfulness, participants are guided to release tension, boost energy, and foster authentic connection. Unlike traditional team-building activities, Be You Disco creates a judgement-free space where individuals can let go of stress, move their bodies freely, and experience the joy of being fully present. This experience promotes mental clarity, team cohesion, and a renewed sense of creativity, all while boosting morale and productivity. It's not about dance skills - it's about self-expression, fun, and reconnecting to what matters most: yourself. Leave feeling lighter, more connected, and ready to take on challenges with fresh energy.
Sponsored by SCI and Elvia
3:45 – 4:00 p.m.
Closing Remarks
5 p.m.
Optional off-site Parting Stone Tour
Join us for an off-site behind-the-scenes experience at Parting Stone’s laboratory headquarters, where innovation meets tradition in deathcare. Witness the solidified remains process firsthand and meet the team pioneering this groundbreaking new form of remains. This interactive event offers insights into Parting Stone’s story, technology, and industry trends. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks while networking with fellow professionals. Complimentary bus transportation will be provided from the hotel. Spots are limited RESERVE YOUR SEAT HERE
Sponsored by Parting Stone
5pm departure from hotel.
Sunday, May 18
7:30 – 8:00 a.m.
Breakfast
8:00 – 8:30 a.m.
Welcome
8:30 – 10:00 a.m.
From Awareness to Action: Advocacy for Impact
Lesley Witter, MPA, CAE
Lesley will focus on the unique role women play in funeral service, national associations and Congress. Lesley’s practical advice and motivational guidance will empower you to not only follow your passions but also to turn them into a force for positive change. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how to make a lasting impact on the causes that matter most to you! Lesley will provide examples of how funeral service professionals can become more involved in advocacy and will offer opportunities to learn about federal legislation that impacts funeral service.
10:00 – 10:15 a.m.
Break
10:15 – 11:15 a.m.
Resilience and Renewal
Chrissy May
In this interactive closing keynote, we'll address the unique challenges women face in funeral service and explore healing methods to manage grief, anxiety, and stress with resilience. This session offers actionable tools for emotional well-being through guided exercises and reflection. Expect meaningful interactions, heartfelt guidance, and a safe space to realign and tap into your inner strength, leaving with renewed inspiration and clarity.
Sponsored by Precoa
11:15 – 11:30 a.m.
Gift Card Giveaway / Closing Remarks
Sponsored by Messenger
11:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Book Signing with Chrissy May
Sponsored by Precoa
2025 Inspiration Award Winner
Congratulations to the 2025 Inspiration Award winner - Katey Houston of Return Home!
Katey Houston is a funeral service trailblazer. With a career defined by innovation, compassion, and leadership, Houston has been instrumental in shaping the evolving landscape of funeral service. As a funeral director and care team manager at Return Home, she has played a key role in advancing Natural Organic Reduction (NOR) – a sustainable end-of-life option that transforms human remains into nutrient-rich soil. Through her dedication to educating families, mentoring professionals and advocating for meaningful memorialization, she has set a remarkable example for her peers.
Beyond her daily work, Houston is a passionate advocate for funeral service education and mentorship. She actively supports the professional development of emerging funeral directors, sharing her knowledge and experiences to help shape the future of the industry. Her efforts extend to community outreach, where she works to increase awareness about alternative disposition methods and the value of personalization in end-of-life rituals.
One of the support letters in her nomination paperwork sums up why she’s such a worthy recipient of this award, “Words fail me in truly expressing all that Katey has done and accomplished during her career in funeral service, but I have seen firsthand the transformational effect she has had. Her leadership, creativity and passion have not only left an indelible mark on everyone affiliated with Return Home but also with client families and funeral professionals throughout our state and on a national level. I have worked with hundreds of funeral professionals throughout my 39-year career in our sacred profession, but there is no one that is more deserving of this recognition than Katey Houston.”
Thank you to our generous Inspiration Award sponsor!
Left to right: Christine Pepper, CEO, NFDA; Katey Houston, Inspiration Award Winner; Jennifer Kaset, Vice President, Sales and Business Development, NGL