Announcement
The School of American Thanatology Partners with the Art of Dying Institute to Lead the Integrative Thanatology Certification Program
LOS ANGELES — September 24, 2025 — The School of American Thanatology (SAT) is proud to announce a new partnership with the Art of Dying Institute (AODI), uniting two pioneering institutions in modern thanatology. Together, they will carry forward the Integrative Thanatology Program—a groundbreaking program that has contributed to the field for more than a decade.
The program will now be directed by Cole Imperi, Founder of the School of American Thanatology, a triple-credentialed thanatologist and alumna of the Art of Dying Institute. Imperi also played a role in shaping the program ten years ago, developing its original branding—a rare full-circle moment that underscores the depth of connection between these two institutions.
"It feels like returning home," Imperi shared. "The Integrative Thanatology Program shaped me as a student and practitioner. To now lead it forward—drawing on both my experience as an alumna and my work at the School of American Thanatology—is deeply meaningful. I’m honored to continue the legacy of AODI and expand it for a new generation of students worldwide."
The partnership was made possible through close collaboration between Ralph White and Tom Valente, co-founders of the Art of Dying Institute, and Cole Imperi. Their shared vision has been to both honor the roots of the program and ensure its continued relevance as the field of thanatology expands globally.
"This program has always been about weaving together the practical and the spiritual, the ancient and the contemporary," said White. "Cole brings both vision and heart, and we’re excited for what lies ahead."
Since its founding in 2020, the School of American Thanatology has grown to serve learners in 30 countries making it one of the most globally connected thanatology schools in the world.
Looking ahead, the School will be announcing continuing education pre-approval updates, teaching faculty, and program dates in the coming months. Meanwhile, enrollment for the 2026 cohort is now open for early birds, offering students the opportunity to join this landmark program early at a pivotal moment in its history.
Sign up to receive additional information here: americanthanatology.com/integrative-thanatology
About the School of American Thanatology
The School of American Thanatology provides inclusive and accessible educational opportunities in and adjacent to the fields of thanatology, deathwork, and thanabotany while also fostering independent research and writing opportunities for our community.
About the Art of Dying Institute
The Art of Dying Institute is dedicated to fostering an engaged community of practitioners; researchers & scholars; educators; front-line innovators; partners; and donors to address the need for a cultural awakening around the theme of death and our mortality, how we die and the consequences for how we live.
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