The following Presidential Viewpoint article first appeared in the Winter 2026 edition of The Independent magazine. OGR members can read the full magazine now in our Digital Magazine Archive. 

Progress does not happen in isolation. It happens when people come together with shared purpose, open minds and a willingness to learn from one another. In the funeral profession, where leadership often carries both emotional and operational weight, progress depends on these essential actions: connection, learning, and growth. 

At the International Order of the Golden Rule, these principles are more than guiding ideas. They are the foundation of our mission and the reason OGR continues to strengthen independent funeral homes across the country. Every program, event and resource we offer is designed to help our members connect meaningfully, learn continuously and grow with confidence. As we look ahead to PROGRESS 2026 in Louisville, Kentucky, these values come into focus in a powerful and practical way. 

Connect: Building Relationships That Matter

Independent funeral service is deeply personal work, yet leadership within it can feel isolating. Owners and managers are often responsible not only for business decisions, but for the emotional wellbeing of staff and families alike. That reality makes connection not just valuable, but essential. 

OGR was built on the belief that funeral professionals are stronger together. Through peer groups, virtual learning and national events, OGR creates intentional spaces for members to connect with others who understand the unique responsibilities of this profession. 

PROGRESS 2026 will be a cornerstone opportunity for connection. Set in Louisville, a city rich in history and hospitality, the conference will bring together independent funeral home leaders from across the world. From structured networking to informal conversations between sessions, PROGRESS fosters authentic relationships rooted in trust and shared experience. 

Many members tell us that the connections they make at PROGRESS extend far beyond the event itself. These relationships often become ongoing peer support systems, sources of mentorship and lasting friendships that strengthen both personal leadership and business success. 

Learn: Expanding Knowledge and Perspective

Learning is a responsibility for anyone committed to excellence in funeral service. The expectations of the families we serve continue to evolve, and the business environment grows more complex each year. OGR exists to ensure our members are not navigating those challenges alone. 

Through webinars, workshops, publications and in-person education, OGR delivers learning opportunities grounded in real-world experience. Our education is designed to be practical, relevant, and immediately applicable within independent funeral homes. 

PROGRESS 2026 will offer a dynamic educational program addressing the issues that matter most to today's funeral professionals. Sessions will be led by respected leaders and industry experts who understand the realities of independent ownership, staff development, operational excellence and long-term planning. 

Equally important, learning at PROGRESS extends beyond the classroom. Some of the most impactful moments happen in conversations with fellow members who openly share both successes and lessons learned. This exchange of experience is one of OGR's greatest strengths. 

Grow: Strengthening Leaders and Businesses

Connection and learning naturally lead to growth. At OGR, growth is not defined by size alone. It is defined by leadership, resilience, and the ability to serve families with excellence while building sustainable, values-driven businesses. 

OGR supports growth by helping members step back from daily demands and think strategically about their future. Whether that means developing the next generation of leaders, improving operational systems or strengthening community relationships, OGR provides guidance and support at every stage. 

Looking Ahead to PROGRESS 2026

The future of independent funeral service depends on leaders who are willing to learn, collaborate, and grow together. OGR remains committed to providing a community where members are supported, challenged, and empowered to move the profession forward. 

PROGRESS 2026 in Louisville will be a defining opportunity to bring these principles to life. It will be a place where relationships deepen, ideas take shape and the future comes into focus. 

I encourage every OGR member to engage fully with the opportunities before you. Get involved. Share your experience. Learn from your peers. Join us in Louisville and be part of a community that believes deeply in the power of connection, the value of learning, and the promise of growth.