Meet Your Speakers
Dominick J. AstorinoMortuary School Professor Worsham College of Mortuary ScienceWayne State University Dept. of Mortuary Science Dominick J. Astorino is a professor at the Worsham College of Mortuary Science in Chicago and the Wayne State University Department of Mortuary Science in Detroit where he writes and teaches courses in embalming, restorative art, and pathology. Professor Astorino holds a B.S. cellular biology B.S. mortuary science and an M.S. forensic medicine. His academic background in biology, mortuary science, and forensic medicine combined with his ability to teach advanced techniques by applying basic principles make him uniquely qualified and have earned him accolades from students and colleagues alike. His professional work in the field of restorative art and embalming has been highlighted in publications worldwide as well as by frequent invitations to present lectures across the United States, Canada, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. Dominick believes in the power of education and the global value of the funeral service profession to society; he worked to create the Kenyan Embalming Education Initiative, which brought a standard of care, education, and supplies to the underprivileged mortuary workers in Kenya and presented the first formal embalming education seminar on the continent of Africa. He continues to work to improve mortuary care standards in countries across the world. Dominick also provides expert witness, review, and consultations for legal proceedings related to mortuary science, has served on the restorative art curriculum review committee for the American Board of Funeral Service Education, and is a licensed funeral director and embalmer in the states of Michigan and Illinois. Embalming Track: Embalming Alcohol and Drug Abuse Cases
| Gary M. Burr, CFSPFuneral Director & EmbalmerOFDA Past President Krill Funeral Service, Inc. Gary M. Burr, CFSP has been licensed in Ohio as a Funeral Director and Embalmer since 1994 and in Indiana since 2000. He served as President of OFDA 2019-2020; He has given numerous presentations to OFDA groups from District meetings to OFDA Conventions. He served on a panel discussion virtual for NFDA to discuss COVID-19 preparations. Learning Lab:
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Brandon CatchenOwner/PartnerSCU Services Brandon Catchen has been in the funeral industry for 15 years with his family's funeral home, Catchen and Son Funeral located in Northern Kentucky. Through numerous and various opportunities in working in this field, Brandon saw the importance of his work and how he could be of service to families in times of need. As knowledge of his expertise grew, grieving families often approached Brandon with assistance to clean up a decomposition, homicides, and/or suicides. Thus, SCU Services was created to be that answer in 2019. "As a death professional I am looked at for answers. SCU has been that answer to families in their time of sudden need. I love to step into a home, provide accurate answers and service. My hope for SCU is that a family would never have to clean up after a loss of a loved one." Brandon and his business partner, Eric Northrup, have led and completed 300 cleans up operations combined. Learning Lab: Restoring Dignity: The Invaluable Role of Death and Trauma Cleanup Services
| Tabitha R. Cline-MillsRegional ManagerGreat Western Insurance Tabitha R. Cline-Mills has been a regional manager with Great Western Insurance, a Wellabe Company for four years. Prior to that, she spent over a decade in the death-care business environment as a licensed funeral director/embalmer and Life & Health agent, wherein she sold preneed insurance concurrently for a full-service approach. Most of her career has been in the corporate sector, wherein she gained experience in project/change management, marketing and public speaking. She holds a Bachelor of Mortuary Science from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science (2000) and a Master of Business Administration from West Texas A&M University (2019). Tabitha is pleased to be able to combine her business knowledge and practical experience to further business relationships with insurance and funeral professionals in her region to create a strategic portfolio of insurance products, aftercare/marketing programs and creative, personalized business solutions for preneed success with an at-need perspective. Preconvention Insurance Seminar:
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Chris CrugerChief Executive OfficerThe Foresight Companies Chris Cruger is viewed as a thought leader within the funeral and cemetery profession. His great success is built on his exceptional ability to provide efficient solutions to the complex business challenges funeral and cemetery leaders are faced with. He continues to successfully improve Foresight’s operational and transactional services. Chris has the knowledge to provide efficient solutions to businesses of all sizes in our profession. His passion and desire for the development of the funeral and cemetery profession come through in everything that he does. Chris is often called upon by state, regional, and national associations to deliver presentations both in person at conferences and meetings as well a virtually through webinars and panels. Learning Lab: A Snapshot into Your Consumer: Attitudes and Behaviors that Define Your Future Business Model
| Donald B. Ferfolia, Jr., J.D., CFSPLicensed Funeral Director Vice President Ferfolia Funeral Home Don is a fourth-generation funeral director involved with his family’s funeral firm in the Southeast Cleveland area. In addition to being a funeral director he is an attorney who is a principal with the law firm of Donald B. Ferfolia, Jr., LTD, located in Brecksville, Ohio. The combination of law, funeral service, and family business experiences have provided Don with a unique skill set that enables him to assist clients in solving many different types of problems. He enjoys helping firms deal with the daily challenges of running a closely held business including regulatory compliance, proactively managing accounts receivable issues and succession planning. Learning Lab:
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Sharon L. Gee-Mascarello, CFSP, MBIERetired Mortuary School Professor, Funeral Director and Embalmer Sharon L. Gee-Mascarello, CFSP is a Michigan licensee, retired embalming instructor in the Mortuary Science Program at Wayne State University, Detroit, and author of the newly released, Embalming: History, Theory, and Practice, 6th edition, McGraw-Hill, 2022. As a young person, Sharon predicted a career in journalism, clinical psychology, or veterinary medicine. Many sudden personal losses lead her to funeral service where she became a guide to help others in their journey through loss. Sharon believes that the final bathing and grooming of every decedent is fundamental postmortem care. She cautions that the type of final disposition selected should never eliminate this simple practice. Gestures through the kindness of human touch are hallmarks in the helping professions. Her catchphrase “become part of the solution and not the problem” opens many fruitful conversations about reverent decedent care practices. In acknowledgment of her positive mindset toward preparation of organ and tissue donors, Gift of Life Michigan recently honored Sharon as their Champion Funeral Professional of the Year. Embalming Track: Reverent Care, the Influence of Mindset and Best Practices
| Antonio GreenFuneral Director and AuthorJames H. Cole Home for Funerals Antonio Green is a fourth generation funeral director at his family's firm James H. Cole Home for Funerals. Antonio has been a licensed mortician for over 15 years. After receiving his Bachelor's Degree from Bowling Green State University, Antonio decided to pursue his passion of helping others in their greatest time of need, and continue his family's legacy of funeral service, by attending the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. In 2021, Antonio took on the task of becoming a published author. His book "Talk to Me -Understanding the Millennial Mindset" was written to help people better understand the Millennial generation, specifically small business owners. Learning Lab: Bridging the Gap: Understanding the Millennial Worker & How They Can Improve Your Business
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Thomas B. Holland, IIVice President Atlantic Coast Life Tom Holland has been helping Preneed Counselors for over 20 years. He has held positions as Agent, Account Executive, Sales Manager, District Manager, Regional Training Director, and Regional Sales Director, Director of Conservation and Training Director-Field Development, Director Development and National Accounts, Vice President Sales/Marketing and currently Vice President National Accounts. Tom has his CPC (Certified Pre-Planning Consultant) designation through the National Foundation Funeral Service and National Funeral Directors Association and is a member of the NFDA development board. He has held Life and Health Insurance License in the following states: Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Missouri and Illinois. His teaching experience includes a Life Underwriters Training Course Moderator. Tom has been approved as an instructor for numerous. continuing education classes in many states and all Canadian Provinces. He holds his DTM designation through Toastmasters International, his Certificate in Management through the American Management Association. He has taught and instructed classes in insurance sales, management development, pre license certification, ethics and marketing and sales development. Tom holds a Master's and Ph.D. Degrees in marketing. Tom spent five years with the Federal Bureau of Investigation before moving into the insurance. business. He has been married 44 years to his wife Gayle and they have a daughter, Ashley Lynette, Grandson Logan and Granddaughter Lillian. Tom enjoys bass fishing and classic automobiles and is active in the Christian Church. Learning Lab: Best Practices for Preneed Counselors
| David A. Ingram, Esq.OFDA General Counsel The Ingram Firm David is a Columbus-based attorney practicing in a range of areas such as emerging businesses and non-profit and tax-exempt organizations. He draws on his experience as the previous executive director for the Ohio Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors to serve OFDA and its membership. He enjoys the opportunity to assist funeral service entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses in navigating compliance, licensing, risk, and the unique challenges that they face each day. Learning Lab:
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Bradwin JordanAuthor/Speaker Bradwin Jordan Meet Brad Jordan, a dynamic figure whose life is as inspiring as his professional achievements. Brad hails from Toledo, Ohio, and currently resides in Wapakoneta, Ohio. He is not just an experienced professional in customer service and recruiting, but also a dedicated family man, a passionate sports coach, and an enthusiastic community member. On the personal front, Brad is a devoted husband to his wife of 23 years, and a loving father to their three children. His family is the cornerstone of his life, providing him with a strong foundation of support and inspiration. Brad's passion for sports extends beyond mere enthusiasm; he actively coaches various sports teams, infusing his players with a spirit of determination and resilience. In his free time, Brad enjoys reading, traveling, and, of course, watching sports, activities that offer him a well-rounded perspective on life and keep him grounded. Professionally, Brad is a powerhouse. With a Master of Business Administration degree, he has carved out a successful career in developing and executing strategies for a wide range of companies, from ambitious startups to prestigious Fortune 500 firms. His leadership style is collaborative and effective, thriving in fast-paced environments and driving towards growth and success. For over two decades, Brad has been a beacon of knowledge and motivation, conducting presentations and workshops across the United States. His focus areas include leadership, maximizing your impact, and emotional intelligence. Brad is not just a mentor; he is an influencer, impacting the lives of numerous individuals with his passion for education and personal development. Brad Jordan is more than a speaker; he is a testament to the power of balancing professional success with personal fulfillment and community service. His journey is a compelling narrative of achievement, passion, and dedication. Learn more at BradwinJordan.com. Keynote: Maximize Your Impact
| Melissa KeeferAdministrative ProfessionalState of Ohio Board of Embalmers and Funeral Directors
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Amanda Marie Eilis King, CFSP, MBITLicensed Funeral Director & Embalmer B.C. Bailey Funeral Home Frigid Fluid Company Amanda Marie Eilis King, CFSP, MBIT, is an Embalmer and Funeral Director holding licensure in multiple states. She completed her embalming apprenticeship under Vernie R. Fountain, as well as extensive training in postmortem reconstructive work. In addition to her AAS in Mortuary Science from ACC in Colorado, Amanda holds a B.S. from Skidmore College for Studio Art and Biology, and a Post- Baccalaureate degree from the Maryland Institute College of Art. Her approach to Funeral Service is from an artistic standpoint. She is also an educator who specializes in and teaches reconstructive work and cosmetic application. Her contributions in the field outside of the funeral home include articles, illustrations, and photography for trade journals. She also does freelance work as AMEK Graphics and is an embalming specialist with Frigid Fluid Company. Embalming Track: The Biology Behind Better Cosmetics
| Poul Lemasters, EsqPrincipalLemasters ConsultingICCFA Cremation Counsel
Preconvention Crematory Operator Certification Seminar
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Madison MillerMiss Ohio 2023 Miss Ohio Scholarship Program
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| Eric NorthrupOwner/PartnerSCU Services Eric Northup has spoken in front of people most of his life through non-profits and ministry opportunities. Eric's previous position was as a Campus Pastor that he started and led for 4 years. He regularly spoke in front of 450 people each and every week where he learned the ability to connect, lead and involve a crowd. Eric did not grow up in the funeral industry. Nor had he been around death much. This has enabled him to observe with a fresh set of eyes, and views his role at SCU as being the lead Visionary for the company. His love of SCU stems from the ability to provide care and sympathy to a hurting family. "I see the value in our service as the family is in the beginning stages of grief. Our mission statement and core values is very important to me on how we lead and operate the business. I love being able to dream, pray, and lead people into something bigger than themselves." Eric and his business partner, Brandon Catchen, have led and completed 300 cleans up operations combined. Learning Lab: Restoring Dignity: The Invaluable Role of Death and Trauma Cleanup Services
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Dr. Tyler O'Brien, CFSP, CCSPFuneral Director/Embalmer Dr. Tyler J. O'Brien is an author, catechist, educator, and funeral director. He is licensed in Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and Michigan. He is a member of the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practitioners and is a Certified Funeral Service Practitioner. He is also a Certified Cremation Service Provider through the National Funeral Directors Association. Dr. O'Brien earned an Associate of Applied Sciences and a Bachelor of Mortuary Sciences from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. He earned a Master of Arts in Theology from Lourdes University and later a Doctor of Education from the University of the Cumberlands. He is employed as a funeral director and embalmer serving the Toledo, OH community. Dr. O'Brien has served in various leadership roles and committees on Christian education and faith formation programs within the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Detroit, is the Director of Religious Education at the parish level, and a member of the National Catholic Bioethics Center. Learning Lab:
| John O'LearyNational Bestselling Author & Speaker John O’Leary Live Inspired In 1987, John O’Leary was a curious nine-year-old boy. Playing with fire and gasoline, John created a massive explosion in his home and was burned on 100% of his body. He was given less than a 1% chance to live. This epic story of survival (first showcased in 2008 with his parents’ acclaimed book Overwhelming Odds) has never felt more relevant than as we live through the COVID-19 pandemic together. Today, John is the author of the #1 National Bestselling books ON FIRE and IN AWE. The latter released in May 2020 with many saying it is the message we all need right now. John is the host of the top-rated Live Inspired Podcast and a live and virtual event speaker teaching more than 50,000 people around the world each year how to live inspired. Consistently described as “the best speaker we’ve ever had” John’s emotional storytelling, unexpected humor and authenticity make each presentation unforgettable. John’s genuine, collaborative approach to partnering allowed him to understand early that clients’ biggest pain point in the wake of the fallout from the pandemic is team “burnout.” To address this, John expanded his Live Inspired Coaching program to bring his keynote from inspirational to transformational. Early successes in the program have clients saying their teams are more focused, collaborative and engaged than ever. John considers his greatest success to be his marriage to his wife Beth, their four children and his relationships with friends and family. Learn more at johnolearyinspires.com Keynote:
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ICCFA RepresentativeICCFA Representative The International Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association (ICCFA)
General Session: National Update
| Kenn PetersonVP, Business and Lending DevelopmentNational Guardian Life Insurance Company With over 37 years of experience helping four national preneed companies each attain annual record revenue with a combined annual sales of almost $2 billion, Kenn uses his passion for helping others and growth mindset to lead teams, solve problems, and help funeral service professionals make a difference in the lives of the families they serve. Kenn earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio, Master of Science Degree from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and Master of Business Administration from the University of Toledo in Toledo, Ohio. He is a certified Celebrant, Life Tribute Professional, serves as a board member on the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science Board of Trustees, and is a past recipient of the Daniel A. Hillenbrand Award. Kenn knows Preneed is a solution that helps make the worst day of a family’s life a little easier. Knowing something that can help those you care about and figuring out the best way to tell them is what motivates him to learn and grow every day. Preconvention Insurance Seminar:
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NFDA RepresentativeNFDA RepresentativeNational Funeral Directors Association (NFDA)
General Session: National Update
| Larry Stuart, Jr.FounderCremation Strategies & Consulting
Preconvention Crematory Operator Certification Seminar
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