Lisa Baue, a former CEO and leader turned consultant and coach to the death care industry for over 44 years, is thrilled to announce the launch of an organization called Funeral Women Lead. Dedicated to creating next-era women’s leadership in the funeral profession, Funeral Women Lead is a robust and multilayered organization that will offer mentoring and coaching opportunities for women, education, and community support that today’s professionals need. Funeral Women Lead has set a future goal of becoming a 501c3 charitable organization.
In an industry where women now represent over 75% of mortuary science graduates yet nearly half leave within five years, Funeral Women Lead is ready to fill a critical gap.
“Funeral Women Lead was born out of a deep commitment to empower women in the funeral profession. I recognized the unique challenges they face and the need for a supportive community that fosters growth, leadership, and collaboration,” Baue said. “By creating this platform, we aim to provide resources, mentorship, and opportunities for women to thrive, ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions are valued in an industry that is often overlooked.”
Empowering Women Through Comprehensive Programs
Funeral Women Lead will be launching innovative programs designed to foster leadership and build lasting change in the funeral profession, including:
- Women’s Leadership Academy: A tailored training and development program aimed at equipping women with the skills and knowledge needed to advance their careers.
- Annual Wellness Summit: An event focused on promoting both physical and emotional well-being among funeral service professionals.
- Coaching and Mentorship Programs: One-on-one and group mentorship opportunities that guide women through the challenges of a traditionally male-dominated field.
- Private Community Network: A supportive platform where members can share experiences, exchange advice, and build professional connections.
- Research and Advocacy Initiatives: Targeted efforts to drive reforms in pay structures, workplace policies, and professional culture.
Despite the influx of talented female professionals, longstanding industry practices have left many feeling unseen and unsupported.
“Women have been telling me for years that they need more support, more mentorship, and more guidance on how to grow as leaders in a male-dominated profession,” said Baue. “Funeral Women Lead will join other organizations in this profession working toward this change, and will be focused on women.”
A Vision for the Future
“When women are supported, businesses flourish and communities benefit,” said Melissa Posey Loose, a Funeral Women Lead advisory board member and senior vice president of communications for Security National Funeral Homes & Cemeteries. “In my 25 years of experience in funeral service, training, marketing, and community engagement, I understand the challenges women face—and the power they hold to transform the industry. Funeral Women Lead exists to help lead that transformation.”
Join the Movement
Funeral Women Lead invites funeral professionals, employers, and advocates for change to join in their effort by becoming a sponsor, engaging in the conversation and attending trainings and upcoming events.
For more information about Funeral Women Lead programs, upcoming events, or to become part of this groundbreaking movement, please visit www.FuneralWomenLead.org.
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