Women's Leadership Academy:
Lead the Way You Were Meant To
The Women’s Leadership Academy is an 18-month structured leadership development program for women in funeral service and deathcare, led by Women’s Leadership Academy Dean Kristen Ernst, MA, LPC, and Erin Wilson, Senior Director of Education and Program Strategy.
Your Next Chapter in Leadership Starts Here
An 18-month comprehensive leadership development experience designed to support women in funeral service and deathcare with long-term leadership growth through consistent learning, accountability, and peer connection. Participants develop practical leadership skills, strengthen communication, and gain the confidence to lead more effectively within their organizations.
By engaging in structured virtual learning, guided reflection, and peer collaboration within a dedicated cohort environment, participants grow their confidence, expand their impact, and strengthen their leadership effectiveness.
Registration includes full participation in the 2026-2027 Women’s Leadership Academy program as well as the in-person kickoff experience that marks the beginning of the cohort journey.
The Women Who Benefit Most
Program Format
Monthly virtual leadership sessions throughout the program year, beginning with an in-person kickoff designed to establish connection, alignment, and momentum.
In-Person Kickoff Experience
September 27–28, 2026
Wild Dunes Resort, Isle of Palms, SC
Leadership Academy participants are invited to join us for the Women’s Wellness Summit Welcome Reception but will need to purchase a separate ticket to attend. Please ask a team member of Funeral Women Lead for more information.
Full Agenda
Sunday, September 27, 2026
6:00 – 9:00 PM
Women’s Leadership Academy Welcome Reception
Location: Boardwalk Inn Clubroom or Resort Outlets
Monday, September 28, 2026
7:00 – 8:00 AM
Registration
7:15 – 8:00 AM
Full Breakfast Buffet
Location: Osprey outdoor Terrace
Fuel up for a powerful day of learning and connection.
In partnership with more information to come
8:15 – 8:30 AM
Welcome & Introductions with Lisa Baue
Location:
Founder and CEO of Funeral Women Lead, Lisa Baue, welcomes participants to the Women’s Leadership Academy. Attendees will connect, share intentions, and preview the program designed to help women in funeral and deathcare lead with purpose, confidence, and clarity.
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Morning Academy Session – 2025 Cohort
Location: Osprey Ballroom 2
Led by Kristen Ernst – More information to come
Simultaneous Session: Board Meeting
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Morning Academy Session – 2026 Cohort
Location: Osprey Ballroom 3
Led by Erin Wilson – More information to come
Simultaneous Session: Board Meeting
12:00 – 1:00 PM
Lunch
Location: Osprey Outdoor Terrace
1:00 – 3:00 PM
Afternoon Academy Session – both Cohorts
Location: Osprey 1
More information to come
4:00 – 5:30 PM
Free Time
Recharge before the evening’s Women’s Wellness Summit Opening Welcome Reception. Take time to rest, connect one-on-one with peers, or enjoy the resort’s beautiful amenities.
5:30 – 8:00 PM
Event: Leadership & Wellness Summit Welcome Reception (Optional*) – UNLEASHED!
Location: Indigo Rooftop
Staying for the Summit or want to socialize before you head out? Join in an evening of connection and community under the Charleston sky. Meet fellow participants, exchange stories, and prepare for two days of inspiration and wellness. Attendance is included for all Wellness Summit attendees.
Leadership Academy participants are invited to join us for the Women’s Wellness Summit Welcome Reception but will need to purchase a separate ticket to attend.
Please ask a team member of Funeral Women Lead for more information.
Meet the Dean of the Leadership Academy
Kristen Ernst, MA, LPC is the Owner and Clinical Director of the Center for Hope & Healing. Kristen specializes in grief, bereavement, trauma recovery, and mental health support.
Kristen has been an important part of the Women’s Leadership Academy, previously teaching within the program, leading group sessions, and providing one-on-one coaching focused on resilience, emotional wellness, and personal growth. In her continued role with Funeral Women Lead, she supports women in strengthening their resilience and leading with empathy and confidence.
* Kristen’s participation in Funeral Women Lead is educational and coaching-based in nature. Although she is a Licensed Professional Counselor, services provided through Funeral Women Lead do not constitute counseling, therapy, or mental health treatment, and they do not establish a therapist-client relationship. Any additional services pursued with Kristen are separate from Funeral Women Lead and must be arranged independently.
Event Highlights
Meet the people coming together to unleash the power of women in the deathcare and funeral profession. Our team is composed of dedicated advocates from inside and out of the deathcare profession, who bring decades of experience in their fields to ensure our women get the support they need.
Sign Up
Get on the early-bird list to receive registration information and updates about our Wellness Summit.
Leadership Academy
Founding Partner
PARTNERS
Founding Partners
Take the Next Step in Your Leadership Journey
Ready to grow, lead, and make a difference? Join the Funeral Women Lead Leadership Academy and connect with a community of ambitious women dedicated to professional excellence and personal transformation. Register now to secure your place in this transformative program.