When Ivy Tech began the process to become the 55th accredited mortuary science program in the country in 2002, LaHayne was approached to assist. Mortuary Science chair, Rick Soria says within the first semester of the program LaHayne proved to be an asset to the objectives and mission of the college. “His presence, knowledge, and professional involvement as a licensed funeral director since 1970 has served to validate the quality of the program as we journeyed through the two-year accreditation process” said Soria.

From the inception of the Mortuary Science program in 2002, LaHayne has volunteered his time and talents as the chair of the program’s newly developed advisory board committee. In addition to his role as an educator, LaHayne also serves as the vice-president of LaHayne Funeral Home in Hammond.

He is a member of the Indiana Funeral Directors Association having served as their president from 1991-92. He serves on the boards of directors of such organizations as the Woodland Child Development Center in Hammond, the Hammond Area YMCA and the Hammond Boys and Girls Club.

As an instructor, LaHayne is credited with not only exposing students to the history of funeral service, but giving first-hand examples of his family’s experience since 1935. “Sharing his story to up-and-coming funeral professionals is invaluable. No textbook can put into words what he and his business have experienced in the field” says Soria.

In the spring of 2004, LaHayne continued to assist the college by opening his doors to house students for an embalming practicum course. From this, students gained hands-on experience in the art of embalming and serving a grieving family. After LaHayne’s funeral home volunteered as a practicum site, several other funeral homes followed.

LaHayne says “Serving as the third generation of funeral directors, in the LaHayne family, my profession is more than a family business, it’s a deep rooted commitment to helping others in need.”