Share this post
Funeral Women Lead announced the successful launch of its first-ever Women’s Leadership Academy, welcoming a full inaugural cohort of 16 women representing diverse roles and career stages across the funeral service and deathcare profession.
The Academy launched in conjunction with Funeral Women Lead’s national gathering in Scottsdale, Arizona, November 17–19, 2025, marking a major milestone for the organization in its first year of operation.
Led by Academy Dean Kristen Ernst, MA, LPC, the Women’s Leadership Academy is a curated, 12-month professional development experience designed to equip women with the skills, confidence, and community needed to lead in a historically male-dominated profession. Participants will engage in structured learning focused on strategic leadership, communication, emotional resilience, culture-building, and navigating the unique challenges women face in funeral service.
“Reaching a full cohort for our very first Leadership Academy is incredibly meaningful,” said Patty Neuswanger, Senior Director of Operations. “It’s a clear signal that women in this profession are ready for intentional leadership development and long-term investment in their growth.”
Beyond curriculum, the Academy emphasizes peer connection, mentorship, and applied leadership, helping participants strengthen not only their own capabilities, but also the cultures and organizations they serve.
As part of the three-day Scottsdale experience, Funeral Women Lead also convened a strategic planning session with 15 funeral professionals from diverse paths within the profession. Insights from this collaborative session are helping shape the future direction of the Academy and additional leadership programming.
“Women in funeral service are already leading in powerful ways, but many haven’t been given clear pathways or support to step fully into their leadership,” said Lisa Baue, Founder and CEO of Funeral Women Lead. “The Women’s Leadership Academy exists to change that, and seeing a full cohort in our first year confirms the urgency and demand for this work.
Future levels of the Women’s Leadership Academy will expand leadership development opportunities for both emerging and seasoned women across the funeral service and deathcare professions. More information and updates are available at funeralwomenlead.org.
About Funeral Women Lead
Funeral Women Lead is an organization that believes women are the key to the survival of this profession. It pursues its mission to unleash greatness in the women of this profession through outreach, coaching and mentoring, a one-year leadership academy, annual wellness summit, monthly podcasts, and scholarships for professional development. Bringing together leaders, sponsors, researchers and supporters, Funeral Women Lead champions women of the funeral profession as much-needed next-era women’s leadership.
To learn more about the organization visit www.funeralwomenlead.org.