The National Funeral Directors has awarded the nationally recognized certified preplanning consultant designation to Cheryl Smith, family service adviser at Voss Funeral Service in Seymour.

The certified preplanning consultant certification program is considered the standard of excellence in funeral service for individuals who help families plan funerals in advance.

In order to become a certified preplanning consultant, candidates must meet specific program requirements and pass an examination based on a standards manual.

They must demonstrate their ongoing professional commitment by fulfilling specific requirements as they renew their certification every four years.

Smith has been with the Voss Funeral Service staff for more than a year. She has worked in education, sales and marketing, has owned her own business and said she loves working with families throughout the prearrangement process.