Funeral service is an honorable and vital profession that provides an essential service under extremely difficult circumstances. Families rely on funeral directors for support during times of emotional distress, as well as for advice and expertise. In fact, according to a recent Gallop Poll of consumers, funeral directors are ranked among the top ten most trusted professionals.

The NYS Tribute Foundation has established a number of professional and continuing education scholarships. The Foundation strives to increase the number of new funeral service professionals by providing educational scholarships to current and future funeral service professionals by encouraging existing licensed funeral directors to return to funeral service; encouraging funeral service as a second career; and providing financial scholarships as appropriate.