APFSP Board Candidate Applications Now Open

Applications are now open for eligible CFSP members interested in serving on the Board of Directors of the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice.

Under the updated election process adopted in October 2025, Board elections are now conducted each year through a Nominating Committee driven process designed to support strong governance, leadership development, and long term organizational planning.

Selected eligible candidates complete a formal application and interview process, after which the Nominating Committee develops and presents a recommended Slate of Candidates for election during the Annual Meeting.

Click Here For 2026 Candidate Application Form

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must hold the Certified Funeral Service Practitioner designation in good standing, and must have maintained their CFSP for a minimum of five years as of the 2026 election cycle. For 2026 eligibility purposes, applicants must have originally earned the CFSP designation in 2021 or earlier.

2026 Board Opportunities

A total of six Board positions are anticipated to be open during the 2026 election cycle, including:

  • Three 3 year Director terms ending in 2029
  • One 1 year Director term ending in 2027
  • Two additional partial Director terms associated with Board officer succession

Important Information for Applicants - Please Read!

Candidates selected for interviews should be prepared to participate in a virtual interview conducted via Zoom during the week of July 13, 2026. Interviews will be scheduled by the Nominating Committee and are expected to last approximately 15 minutes.

Board service requires active participation in governance, committee work, strategic planning, and leadership activities throughout the year. 

The APFSP Board of Directors typically meets every other month via Zoom during early evening hours, with one full-day, in-person meeting held annually in advance of the National Funeral Directors Association convention. Travel expenses for Board members are covered in accordance with the APFSP Expense Reimbursement Policy. Virtual meetings generally last 1 - 2 hours, with occasional special meetings scheduled as needed. The APFSP elective year begins in October in conjunction with the in-person meeting.

The Nominating Committee evaluates candidates based on a variety of factors, including:

  • Commitment to the Academy and the CFSP designation
  • Leadership and volunteer experience
  • Professionalism and communication skills
  • Strategic perspective and organizational engagement
  • Ability to contribute to the long term success of the Academy

2026 Election Timeline

  • May 15, 2026 — Candidate Application Form released to membership
  • June 30, 2026 — Candidate Application deadline
  • Week of July 13, 2026 — Candidate interviews conducted via Zoom
  • By August 10, 2026 — Slate of Candidates published to membership
  • September 9, 2026 — Annual Meeting and election conducted via Zoom
  • October 23, 2026 — New Board Member orientation in Charlotte, North Carolina
  • October 24, 2026 — Installation of Officers and Directors in Charlotte, North Carolina

A Continued Commitment to Leadership Development

The Academy remains committed to maintaining a transparent, thoughtful, and leadership focused election process that reflects the mission, professionalism, and future vision of the organization.

Members interested in serving are encouraged to thoughtfully consider the responsibilities of Board leadership and apply for the opportunity to help guide the Academy into its next 50 years.

Click Here For 2026 Candidate Application Form