About Dallas Institute

Erin Wilson Headshot

Erin Wilson

President

Mrs. Wilson’s journey to becoming the first female president of the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service is a remarkable tale of dedication, passion, and breaking new ground. Her appointment, a historic milestone in the institution's 80-year history, underscores the evolving landscape of the funeral service profession and academia.

A proud alumna of Dallas Institute of Funeral Service, President Wilson’s path has been anything but conventional. Her multifaceted background seamlessly blends funeral service expertise with a robust academic foundation. As a licensed funeral director and embalmer, Mrs. Wilson’s knowledge and experience in the funeral service profession are undeniable. However, her journey began in a different sphere—education.

Before finding her calling in funeral service, Mrs. Wilson pursued a career in education. It was during her time at mortuary college that she discovered a unique way to merge her dual passions for teaching and funeral service. This realization propelled her back into academia, where she could influence and inspire future professionals in the field.

President Wilson holds a Master of Science in Human Relations and Business, a master’s certification in Executive Leadership, and is a Certified Funeral Service Professional. Her commitment to excellence and innovation has been evident throughout her career. In 2019, she began teaching at the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service, all while maintaining an active role within the profession. Her dedication and expertise did not go unnoticed, leading to her appointment as Academic Dean in 2021, and later as Program Director at the end of 2022.

Mrs. Wilson is an active member of several well-regarded organizations. She currently serves on the Ethics Committee for the Texas Funeral Directors Association, the National Funeral Directors Association, and the Accreditation Liaison Committee of the American Board of Funeral Service Education. She is also a member of the LeTourneau University Chapter of Psi Chi and the Epsilon Chapter of the Pi Sigma Eta academic fraternity. Additionally, she is a Certified Funeral Service Practitioner through the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice and a Certified Crematory Operator through the International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association.

Under her leadership, the Dallas Institute of Funeral Service has seen significant growth and improvement. Her team’s focus on enhancing program quality and student success has resulted in notable advancements in student retention, graduation rates, and National Board Exam scores.

Beyond her professional achievements, President Wilson’s personal life is equally fulfilling. She and her husband, Lance, have been married for 24 years. They are incredibly proud of their children, Luke, who is currently working on a Master’s in Energy at Texas A&M University, and Lindsey, who is beginning her college career at Tarleton State University.

Mrs. Wilson's ascent to the presidency is not just a personal achievement but also a beacon of progress for the institution and the profession. Her journey from student to president is a testament to her unwavering dedication, expertise, and the profound impact she continues to make in both funeral service and academia.

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