The R. Barry McPhillips Scholarship was created in April 2001 in memory of R. Barry McPhillips, a long-time proponent of continuing education. As a first generation funeral director, Mr. McPhillips, licensed in 1961, purchased the Applebee-McPhillips Funeral Home in 1969. Throughout his funeral service career, he purported that true success was directly proportional to knowledge and continually encouraged all to keep learning. His strong belief in education was second only to his love for funeral service and commitment to families in need.

The R. Barry McPhillips Scholarship Award was created to assist the continuing education efforts of recently licensed and early-career funeral directors. The scholarship will cover all expenses (hotel, registration, etc.) at the New York State Funeral Directors Association (NYSFDA) Annual Convention. The purpose is to provide a forum for new/recent licensees to attend the NYSFDA Convention and to avail themselves of the continuing education programs offered.

The scholarship will be awarded at the discretion of the R. Barry McPhillips Scholarship Committee based on the criteria listed below, a completed application, and the recommendation of an NYSFDA member. The decision of the R. Barry McPhillips Scholarship Committee will be final. The Committee reserves the right not to make this award if there are no applicants or if the applicants do not meet Committee standards. Notification will be made annually on or about July 15. The award will cover expenses for the recipient to attend the NYSFDA Annual Convention.

Eligibility

• Applicant must be a NYS funeral director, licensed five years or less, and in good standing with the Department of Health.
• Applicant must be a first-time attendee at the NYSFDA Annual Convention.
• Applicant must attend all convention continuing education and social sessions.
• Applicant must be recommended by a funeral director of an NYSFDA member firm in good standing.
• Applicant must be prepared to complete a follow-up evaluation exercise if selected.

Application Instructions

• Click here for the application form.
• Write a brief (typed) essay for each of the following questions:
  • Why is continuing education valuable to the future of funeral service?
  • How will this opportunity help you in your funeral service career?
• Obtain a Letter of Recommendation from a funeral director who owns, or is employed by, an NYSFDA member firm.
• Mail completed application and supporting documents to:

The application packet must be received by the NYS Tribute Foundation or postmarked no later than June 30.