Congratulations to the 26 funeral professionals who were awarded three cremation certifications (Crematory Operator, Crematory Administration and Cremation Arranger) last week through the Cremation College at ICCFA’s University in Memphis! 

Led by top-notch Dean Jim Starks, attendees experienced first hand the leading cremation educational program in our profession.  Learning from professors with extensive cremation experience, sharing and networking with fellow attendees, and the opportunity to witness the dynamics of the Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens contributed to yet another successful program.  And, yes, there were also fun activities whether it was demonstrating one’s skill at volleyball or having the opportunity to experience authentic barbecue delights in and around Beal Street.

In 2007 after being a professor at the cremation college for several years, I decided it would be beneficial for me to attend the entire college.  It definitely was the right decision!   The wealth of information I obtained from the other professors was of great value.  Every one of my fellow professors continues to keep pace with the reality of what’s truly happening in the marketplace and offers successful ways to help funeral professionals with the growing cremation market. 

To help you get a better feel of the vast resources the professors have to share, we will be featuring a series of cremation coaching blogs on the professors. Each professor will share a segment of effective cremation guidance to assist you in your day-to-day operations.  All of the educational segments will be made available to ICCFA members on the Cremation Coaching Center website. 

Look for our first “Spotlight on Professor Mike Kubasak” to appear shortly.

2010 cremation college attendees, along with Mark Ballard of Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens (second from left), in front of the Nativity Mausoleum at their Germantown Road location.  As always, Mark was a phenomenal host!