After the first successful National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Professional Women’s Conference (PWC) last year we couldn’t wait to get together again. The second annual NFDA PWC was held in San Antonio, TX from May 5-7, with the inaugural Inspiration Award presented by Jennifer Kaset, NGL Regional Vice President, Sales.

On Friday night, the first night of the conference, National Guardian Life Insurance Company (NGL) sponsored Fiesta with Friends for all attendees. An all-female mariachi band performed, along with a photobooth that included props to help capture memories. There was also a delicious Tex-Mex dinner and festive drinks in honor of Cinco de Mayo.

Jennifer had the privilege of presenting the 2023 NFDA Inspiration Award to Ellen Wynn McBrayer. Ellen is a licensed Funeral Director/Embalmer, Certified Celebrant, Certified Funeral Service Practitioner, Certified Preplanning Consultant and is the President and Chief Financial Officer of Jones-Wynn Funeral Homes and Crematory, a third-generation family business.

Criteria for award nominations included an exceptional female or non-binary individual who has made noteworthy professional contributions to the funeral service industry or a related field, actively involved in educating the public on the value of memorialization and participate in professional development activities. NGL sponsored the 2023 Inspiration Award.

“Ellen is truly an inspiration. The way she seamlessly flows from her professional to personal life, providing each person with thoughtful interaction and respect. The families she serves can expect compassion and honesty as she guides them through their memorial and celebration of life needs. Ellen’s impact also extends beyond the funeral profession,” said Jennifer. “I’m honored to be a part of the NFDA Inspiration Award process and proud to work for NGL, an organization that understands the value of these important conferences and recognizing individuals who make a difference in our industry.”  

In addition to Ellen’s work in the funeral industry, she is a respected speaker, active member in industry organizations and volunteers in her community. Click here to read more about Ellen’s background.

Click here to learn more about the Inspiration Award.

The two-day conference included several speakers and workshops. “The speakers were insightful and incredibly motivating,” said Jessi Booker, NGL Regional Vice President, Sales. “Motivational speaker, author and coach Vera Jones was an excellent keynote speaker. I enjoyed the conference and I look forward to connecting with everyone again later this year.”

“It was a wonderful time of true fellowship and empowerment with women across all areas of the funeral home profession coming together. An extra benefit was that I was able to spend time with my colleagues, Jessi, Judy, Andrea and Jessica. It was a great weekend; one I’ll never forget. I look forward to seeing everyone at the NFDA PWC ReConnect event on Sunday, September 10,” shared Jennifer.