The future of our industry is as important as ever, and NYSFDA is committed to cultivating relationships with mortuary science students, registered residents, and recent graduates. On Saturday, April 5, 2025 we conducted NYSFDA Student Day – a full day, in-person event designed for students and residents to connect, network, and learn from one another and licensed funeral directors. Mortuary science students from across the state participated in the event. We kicked off with lunch and an introduction to NYSFDA and our programs, and had the opportunity to hear from NYSFDA’s Bridge Commission leaders.

The educational portion of the event allowed students to experience hands-on learning in smaller groups. In the “First Call” Station they encountered both common and unique first call situations and practiced transfers and working with stretchers. In the “Techniques & Tips” Station participants navigated the casket, practiced the flag presentation, and hands-on use of the urn and a church truck. In “Professional Preparation” Station they discussed the importance of professional verbal and written communication skills, professional etiquette, and networking and interview tips.

The educational portion of the event concluded with an interactive Mock Arrangement session. Everyone came together as a group and worked through challenging First Call/Arrangement scenarios. Each of these situations presented students with various “what would you do” circumstances and unique situations often encountered when meeting with families and transferring the deceased from different settings. Always the most popular part of the day, the goal for this session was to provide real-life experiences and get students to think creatively while best serving families.

The event ended with additional networking and an open Q&A “Ask the Funeral Director,” allowing participants to ask their questions. Throughout the day participants were able to connect with one another in small groups, had the opportunity to talk one-on-one with NYSFDA leaders, and gain practical information designed to prepare them for their early career as a funeral director.

This program was made possible thanks to the support and hard work of many.

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Thank You 2025 Sponsors

Dignity Memorial – Transportation

Directors Choice Credit Union – Giveaways

Matthews Aurora – Casket

PrePlan Funeral Trust – Break Sponsor

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Mark your calendar for August 18-20, 2025 for this NYSFDA’s Annual Convention in Saratoga Springs, NY. The event schedule and registration (free for NYSFDA Student Members) will be available in mid-May 2025. Visit the NYSFDA website for full details.

Each year the New York State Funeral Directors Association (NYSFDA) hosts an annual convention, providing funeral service professionals the opportunity to earn continuing education credits, connect with their peers from across the state, and discover the latest products and services during the Trade Show.

NYSFDA is committed to providing state-of-the-art education and training opportunities to New York State’s funeral services professionals. Our Webinar Series provides regularly-scheduled training sessions to help licensed funeral directors fulfill Continuing Education requirements and mandatory OSHA training. Webinars cover a range of topics, ensuring members stay on top of their profession. 

As a Student/Resident member of NYSFDA, you’ll have access to all education webinars. Many of these programs are offered free to members. Visit www.nysfda.org for a list of upcoming programs.