It can be challenging to stay on top of continually evolving consumer preferences, increasingly complex economic realities, and challenges recruiting and retaining quality staff. To help you stay ahead of the curve, NFDA has brought together the best experts to lead more than 30 engaging education sessions covering embalming and restorative art, compliance and legal, consumer care, business operations, disposition, innovation and technology, marketing and more at the 2024 NFDA International Convention & Expo, October 20-23 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Education sessions taking place during the convention include: 

• Emaciation: The Forgotten Restoration presented by John T. Hill, funeral director and embalmer, James Funeral Home
• The Synergy of Funeral Professionals and Death Doulas presented by Ashley Johnson, founder, Loyal Hands LLC
• Insights to Action: Using Consumer Data to Guide Your Business Model presented by Chris Cruger, CEO, Foresight
• The Consumer’s Journey to Purchasing Funeral Services: A Marketing Roadmap for Growing Market Share and Revenue presented by Bill A. Johnston, president, Post and Boost Inc.
• Navigating the Future: Understanding the “Zero Consumer” presented by Georganne Bender, partner, KIZER & BENDER Speaking
• Addressing Quiet Quitting, Disengagement and Resignations presented by Dr. Allen Lycka, speaker, mentor and trainer
• The Impact of Vicarious Trauma on Funeral Directors presented by Kristina Rose, director, Office for Victims of Crime, U.S. Department of Justice
• End Well Together presented by J.J. Duncan, television producer, writer and advocate; Hui-Wen Sato, pediatric ICU nurse; and Darnell Walker, television writer and death doula
• Will That be Swedish or Deep Tissue? Presented by Regan Moreland, funeral director and embalmer, Radney Funeral Home
• And many more

NFDA education sessions are sponsored by TruStage. 

In addition to education sessions, NFDA will offer five pre-convention seminars. These intensive workshops, designed to provide deep dives into specialized topics, will give attendees actionable knowledge and skills (additional fee): 

• October 18-20 – Certified Celebrant Training, presented by Glenda Stansbury and Matt Bailey, brought to you by InSight Institute and hosted by NFDA
• October 19 – NFDA Arranger Training, presented by Lanae Strovers, trainer, NFDA
• October 19 – NFDA Cremation Certification Program, presented by Michael Nicodemus, vice president, cremation services, NFDA, sponsored by Implant Recycling with additional support from Federated Insurance
• October 20 – Panel Discussion: Ask the Seasoned Professional Embalmer – Your Questions Answered! Presented by Vernie R. Fountain, post-mortem reconstructive specialist, Fountain National Academy, and a panel of embalming and restorative art specialists
• Sunday, October 20 – Safe Zone Training for Funeral Service Professionals, presented by Sara Murphy, Ph.D., death educator, Fellow in Thanatology and Suicidologist

Attendees who feel more comfortable learning in another language can access translation services via a new web-based software that gives them access without needing to download an app or use special equipment. Attendees will use their mobile device to scan a QR code at the convention registration desk. They can select their preferred language and enjoy on-demand translation of education and keynote sessions.

Register and Book Your Hotel Today

The NFDA International Convention & Expo is the premier event in funeral service! Don't miss your chance to take your career and your business to the next level by learning and networking with the best, brightest and most innovative minds in funeral service. You can expect to: 

• Expand your skill sets
• Connect in person with new and long-time colleagues
• Get inspired by compelling speakers
• Discover new solutions to your most pressing challenges
• Enjoy the vibrant city of New Orleans
• And much more! 

When you register for the NFDA International Convention & Expo on or before September 9 you will receive our special early-bird pricing. After September 9, prices will increase by $150. Click here to register now. 

Maritz Global Events is the official hotel bureau for the 2024 NFDA International Convention & Expo. Maritz enables you to easily compare hotel prices and locations to find the accommodation that best meets your needs. Maritz’s simple booking process – and friendly, helpful staff – will make booking a hotel room and managing reservations a breeze. Click here to make your reservation by September 26.

The latest information, including information on how to register and make hotel reservations, is available at NFDA.org/Convention or by calling 800-228-6332 (+1-262-789-1880).