Leadership isn’t built only in educational sessions. Sometimes it happens during conversations between sessions, over dinner with peers or while sharing experiences outside the meeting room.

That’s what makes the 2026 NFDA Leadership Conference, August 2 through 5 in Louisville, Kentucky, different.

This year’s conference combines practical leadership education with unique opportunities to connect with colleagues from across funeral service. Attendees will hear from respected speakers including Bob Harris, Chris Yonker, Lesley Witter, Martha Thayer, Chris Farmer and Wes Henderson as they explore leadership, advocacy, workforce challenges, communication and the future of funeral service.

The experience begins Sunday, August 2, with an optional golf outing at Hunting Creek Country Club, offering attendees the chance to connect while enjoying one of Kentucky’s premier private championship courses.

And because leadership deserves celebration, attendees can wrap up the conference at the Hats Off to Leadership Closing Celebration at Churchill Downs. This optional event offers a memorable evening of food, entertainment and networking at one of America’s most iconic venues.

Of course, attendees also will experience favorite Leadership Conference traditions including Breakout by Office discussions, opportunities to meet NFDA leadership candidates, and countless chances to connect with peers facing many of the same challenges and opportunities.

Register now, reserve your hotel room and make plans to join funeral service leaders from across the country in Louisville.

Visit the NFDA website to register today.