Recognizing Women Making a Lasting Impact in the Profession

The Inspiration Award is presented annually at the NFDA Professional Women’s Conference to an exceptional woman who has made noteworthy professional contributions to funeral service or a related field. The ideal nominee is someone who takes initiative, mentors colleagues and whose efforts have resulted in significant accomplishments at the local, national or international level. 

Nominees must have a minimum of five years of experience working directly with families and be actively involved in community, professional, and public education efforts. Individuals cannot nominate themselves. 

The award is not guaranteed every year — it is presented when appropriate candidates are nominated and approved by a panel of judges. The 2026 award will be presented at the Professional Women’s Conference in St. Pete Beach, FL, May 6–9.

Guidelines

1. The NFDA Professional Women’s Conference Inspiration Award is not necessarily an annual award. It will be presented if and when appropriate candidates are nominated and approved by a panel of judges. 

2. Nominations meeting the established criteria will be evaluated by a panel of judges. Decisions of the judges are final.  

3.A standard evaluation form, based on established criteria, will be used to judge each nominee.

4. The nominee who receives the highest evaluation will receive the award, which will be presented during the 2025 NFDA Professional Women’s Conference

5. The nominating party and his or her winning nominee will be informed via email of the results.  Other nominating parties will also be informed via email of the results.