Every day, funeral professionals go above and beyond to serve families with compassion, creativity and care. NFDA’s Pursuit of Excellence Award Program exists to recognize that dedication, and in 2026, it will do so in a powerful new way.

NFDA has introduced the Remembering A Life Award, a new honor within the Pursuit of Excellence program that will recognize funeral homes creating the profession’s most personal and meaningful funerals and memorial services. Debuting in 2026, the award celebrates services that truly reflect a life lived and provide comfort, healing and lasting meaning for families.

Up to five funeral homes will be selected each year based on essays submitted as part of their Pursuit of Excellence entry. These submissions should highlight how a funeral or memorial service creatively honored a life, incorporated family wishes or cultural traditions, and exceeded expectations in meaningful ways.

A Legacy of Excellence

For more than 45 years, the Pursuit of Excellence Award Program has honored funeral homes that demonstrate integrity, innovation and service excellence. In addition to the new Remembering A Life Award, the program includes the foundational Pursuit of Excellence Award, and several other special awards, including the Hall of Excellence, Richard Myers Pinnacle Award, Best of the Best Award and Honorable Mention. 

Why Participate?

Participation is about more than recognition. The program encourages reflection, growth and the sharing of best practices that elevate the profession. The Remembering A Life Award, in particular, reinforces the value of meaningful memorialization and the profound impact funeral professionals have on the families they serve.

Apply by July 15

Applications for the 2026 Pursuit of Excellence Award Program are due July 15, 2026. Learn more and apply at NFDA.org/PursuitOfExcellence.

Your work matters. Let it be recognized.