Indianapolis (April 7, 2026) – The International Order of the Golden Rule (OGR) Foundation has named the 2026 recipients of its Awards of Excellence Scholarships, recognizing six mortuary students for their dedication to the funeral service profession. The Foundation distributes a total of $10,000 in scholarship funding to support their continued education.
The Awards of Excellence Scholarships are presented each year to students who exemplify strong academic achievement, hands-on experience in funeral service, and a genuine commitment to caring for families with compassion and dignity.
This year’s selection process was especially competitive, with 42 applicants representing programs across the United States and Canada. Following a thorough review, six students were selected for this honor.
Meet the 2026 Scholarship Recipients:
Alexandra Allen-Byam – From Peterborough, N.H. Alexandra is a student at FINE Mortuary College LLC. She currently works for Jellison Funeral Home. Alexandra has been awarded a $3,000 scholarship and airfare, accommodations and registration to attend OGR’s signature event, PROGRESS, in Louisville, Ky. on May 5-7.
Megan Young – From Ontario, Canada. Megan is a student at Humber College. She works for OGR member firm George Darte Funeral Home in St. Catharines, Canada, and has been awarded a $2,000 scholarship.
Dr. Tiffany Slone – From Elkhorn, Ky. Tiffany is a student at the Mid-American College of Funeral Service. She works for Bailey Funeral Home and has been awarded a $2,000 scholarship.
Rabbi Larry Malinger – From Aberdeen, N.J. Larry is a student at Mercer County Community College. He works for OGR member firm Brunswick Memorial Home and has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
Roxanne Simpson – From Fredericksburg Va., Roxanne is a student at Brightpoint Community College. She works for Agape Life Services and has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
Donna Hairston – From Collinsville, Va., Donna is a student at Brightpoint Community College. She works for Wilson Funeral Service and Cremation Home and has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
“The commitment these students have shown reflects the very heart of the International Order of the Golden Rule,” said Chris Miller, OGR Foundation Chair and incoming OGR Board Chair. “We’re honored to invest in their growth as they advance in the profession and continue serving families with integrity and compassion.”
All scholarship applicants receive complimentary student membership in OGR through December 31, 2026, providing them with access to valuable resources and networking opportunities within the funeral service profession.
To learn more about the OGR Foundation and to make a donation, please visit www.ogr.org/foundation. Your support helps to empower the next generation of compassionate and skilled funeral service professionals.
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About the International Order of the Golden Rule
Since 1928, the International Order of the Golden Rule has been the leading professional association dedicated to promoting high ethical standards and outstanding service in the funeral and memorialization profession. OGR members represent the elite in the industry, consistently providing compassionate and personalized care to families in their time of need. OGR is headquartered in Indianapolis. For more information, visit www.ogr.org.
