NYSFDA Annual Convention Inspires Leaders, Empowers the Future of Funeral Service
Nearly 400 funeral directors, industry experts, and exhibitors gathered in Saratoga Springs from August 17-19, 2026, for the New York State Funeral Directors Association (NYSFDA) Annual Convention. Centered around the theme "Empowering the Future of Funeral Service," the premier statewide event brought together professionals from across New York to collaborate, access continuing education, and explore the latest industry innovations.
“Our Annual Convention is about empowering the future of funeral service,” said Executive Director Michael Lanotte. “This year in Saratoga, our members did just that by earning vital CEUs, celebrating milestones, and building relationships. They took the time to recharge so they can return home inspired to better serve their communities.”
This year’s event featured forward-thinking educational sessions packed with actionable insights to help professionals advance the funeral service industry. Opening the convention, Jeff Butler explored emerging technological shifts, emphasizing why human connection remains irreplaceable. Next, Angelique Simpson of Matthews Aurora Funeral Solutions tackled rising cremation demands, urging funeral directors to focus on value and insight over price so families can make informed decisions. Closing Monday's educational lineup with youthful wit and infectious positivity, TEDx speaker and Certified Peer Recovery Specialist Johnny Crowder shared realistic insight and inspiration for integrating mindfulness into daily routines.
The education lineup also featured two leaders in embalming and restorative arts - Dominick Astorino and Amanda King, CFSP, MBIT, MSP. From tapping into historical embalming practices in modern cases to guiding families through traumatic, challenging viewing processes, participants returned home stronger funeral directors ready to serve families. Additionally, nationally recognized presenters like marketing expert Doug Gober (The Foresight Companies), Certified Thanatologist Marc Markell, and entrepreneur and author Chuck Gallagher led high-impact sessions ranging from innovative marketing and merchandising approaches to the impact assisted dying has on funeral arrangements and harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to enhance the industry while keeping empathy at the heart of all interactions.
In addition to the educational program, the convention offered an array of events to celebrate career and funeral home milestones, foster professional connections, and honor outgoing leaders while welcoming new members to the association’s boards. Plus, a trade show for attendees and their guests with more than 60 exhibiting companies showcasing caskets and urns, hearses, software and technology, and other funeral related services and items.
During the Association’s Annual Banquet Tuesday, August 18, Mark J. Nolan of Nolan Funeral Home in Northport was installed as President. A New York State licensed funeral director for 30 years, Nolan will serve for the 2026-27 term.
“I stand before all of you feeling rather humbled,” said Nolan. “I am proud to be on the very same stage my father, James P. Nolan Jr., stood 24 years ago. I recall him speaking about getting involved and why Association work is so important. It left an impression on me.”
Other NYSFDA officers installed were: President-Elect: David A. Parente, CPC, McVeigh Funeral Home, Inc., Albany; Treasurer: Michelle Ironside Kinville, Ironside Family Funeral Homes, Inc., Oneida; Secretary: Kevin R. Sullivan, Sullivan’s Funeral Home, Horseheads; Immediate Past President: Michael J. Gorton, Jr., CFSP, McManus-Lorey Funeral Home in Medford.
The convention concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and momentum for the year ahead. As attendees departed Saratoga Springs, the collective focus shifted toward implementing new practices and sustaining the vital community connections established during the three-day event.
“The energy this year proved that the future of funeral service is bright,” Lanotte concluded. “By embracing innovation and supporting one another, our members are not just adapting to change—they are leading the way. We leave Saratoga energized, equipped, and more dedicated than ever to providing compassionate, forward-thinking care to New York families.”
Thank You Sponsors
Diamond
 Educational programming provided by the NYS Tribute Foundation, thanks in part to Franklin O.L. Steinberg’s generous donation. |  Free member registration made possible by PrePlan Funeral Trust. Plus, the Strolling Brunch on the Trade Show floor is a highlight each year. |
Gold
Lions Eye Bank of the Northeast
S&S Coach Company
A.D. Valor Technical Cleaning
Silver
American Funeral Consultants, Inc.
ConnectLife/Center for Donation & Transplant/Finger Lakes Donor Recovery Network
Directors Choice Credit Union
Matthews Aurora/Dodge
OneGroup
Rose & Hughes Funeral Home
Bronze
Abigal
Batesville
Nassau-Suffolk FDA
National Funeral Directors Association
TribuCast
The Bonadio Group
Partner
Bona Vita Benefits
Miller Printing
Precious Memories
Friend
Air Esscentials
American Coach Sales
Dutchess Putnam Ulster FDA
eterni by myagentworks
Florence Casket
Frigid Fluid Company
Gather
MacKenzie Urn & Vault ®
MyRemembrance
National Mortuary Shipping and Cremation
Score Processing
Service Corporation International
The Messenger Co.
Traditional Funeral Products
