Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science

CINCINNATI – Xavier University will welcome the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science back to campus, a timely reunion that positions each institution for greater long-term success.

The move marks a return to campus for the college, which operated within Xavier’s A.B. Cohen Center from 1987 through 1995.

The development stems from the institutions’ shared history, commitment to holistic health and wellness, and student-centered approach to higher education.

CCMS, the nation’s first mortuary school, is an institution in the U.S. which offers fully accredited Bachelor of Mortuary Science degree. The nationally renowned program complements Xavier’s longstanding strength in the health sciences, a field in which the University is positioned for even greater success ahead of the launch of its new osteopathic medical school in 2027.

Rejoining Xavier’s campus bolsters career prospects for funeral services students seeking complementary academic programs ranging from minors and certificates to advanced degrees. With the future of funeral service vastly changing, it is imperative CCMS positions themselves to keep the students future ready, prepared, and highly marketable for hiring and for the ever-changing landscape of death care needs and experiences.

“I fondly remember my time on Xavier campus when I attended CCMS. It was truly a robust experience which complemented my learning journey as a death care professional. I am thrilled with this powerful opportunity for our existing and prospective students,” current CCMS President Mark Ivey, class of 1990, stated.

Along with opening CCMS students to a wider university ecosystem, the partnership reintroduces the college life experience at a moment when campus and the surrounding area are seeing substantial new investment.

CCMS Board Chair Kathleen Shaffer, CCMS class of 2008, commented “we are grateful to be returning to Xavier. And, we know this move is one more element to fully position our institution as a leader in death care education.”

Congratulations to our Spring 2026 CCMS Scholarship Recipients! We are so proud and are so happy to help them pursue their dreams of being in the death care profession 🤩

Thank you to all of our supporters who make this possible by donating to our memorial scholarship funds! We are so grateful for each and every one of you.

If you are interested in donating to these scholarship funds and help make a difference, click the link below to be directed to our donation form.

https://ccms.populiweb.com/router/forms/respond/14/f80539684815e48b647042b9b3da45fd

We want to wish those who are active in, seeking to become part of, or those who have done their part in the funeral service world a Happy National Funeral Director & Mortician Recognition Day! Without passionate people like you this profession wouldn't be what it is.

We thank each and every one of you for the hard work and dedication you put into making a difference in the world 🤍🌟

In honor of this wonderful day, tell us why you chose to become a funeral director/embalmer?

As the traditional follows, our Spring Semester Four class planned and put together a beautiful remembrance event for their final Event and Catering Management in Funeral Service Class project.

The students put a twist on the event and dedicated the theme to the Lunar New Year! Weeks of planning, decorations, food menus, and presentations paid off.

Not only did they put together a beautiful event, but they also surprised us with a few furry friends! In theme with it being the year of the horse, The Cincinnati Therapeutic Riding "Mini" Horse Outreach Program arrived. Bringing two of their mini therapy ponies, Mocha and Graham Cracker, to bring comfort to those who may need it.

We are always so proud of our students for the dedication and thoughtfulness they always put into these events. You guys did amazing!

Also a huge shoutout to CTRH Ohio for bringing the barn to us! 🤍💟

It is that time again! Our 6th Annual CCMS Golf Classic is set to happen on August 19, 2026.

Want to enjoy a great day of golf and a great cause?
Sign your foursome up today and join us at Glenview Golf Course for a fun day out on the green! ⛳️🏑

Click here for more information and to register!
https://www.ccms.edu/events/event/6th-annual-ccms-fundraising-golf-classic/2026-08-19/

Interested in learning more about our president? Read the article below to learn about his background, his career path, and the future of CCMS! 🌟🙌

A calling and not a family legacy led Mark Ivey to funeral service. Now president and CEO of Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, the 1990 graduate is focused on innovation, leadership, and serving the next generation.
Read the full conversation in this month's AFD.

🔗 Link in the comments

This last Friday we held our Winter Social Potluck! This beginning of the semester tradition allows for students to get to know faculty/staff and other cohorts in a fun setting. Students brought their favorite board games and snacks and hung out in our classroom A/B for the night.

It was an insanely fun night of laughter and good food. 🤍💟

Join us in congratulating our 13 newest certified Celebrants. 🎉

This training is a part of our Bachelors forth semester curriculum and teaches our students the importance of meeting a families needs in their time of grieving. Being able to provide a service that is personalized to the individuals personality, interests, and story is an important skill to have in this profession.

We are so proud of our students for completing this step in their education and career! 💜🤩

Happy New Year's!

Let's fill this year with happiness, growth, and success. We can't wait to see what this year holds in store for everyone 🤩💜

Happy Holidays from us to you!
We hope your Holiday season is full of laughter, warmth, and joy.
🎄❄️🤍🎁⛄

We are so proud of the Fall Class of 2025! You all will be missed 💜

If you weren't able to attend graduation. Please click the link to our YouTube page to watch ALL of our Fall 2025 graduation and to see your favorite graduate get their diploma!

https://youtube.com/live/9R0PwhML_HA?feature=share