e-Insight - October 2023 - NonMember

Board of Directors

Executive Committee

Chairman of the Board | Kevin Lesch (630) 830-3232 | klesch@arachasgroup.com

President | Allyson Padilla (618) 393-2195 | allyson@blanksinsurance.com

President-Elect | Patrick Taphorn, CIC, CSRM (309) 347-2177 | ptaphorn@unland.com

Vice President | Thomas Evans, Jr. (847) 587-2155 | tom.evans@assuredpartners.com

Secretary/Treasurer | Cindy Jackman, CIC, CISR (800) 878-9891 x8745 | cjackman@arlingtonroe.com

IIABA National Director | George Daly (708) 845-3311 | george.daly@thehortongroup.com

Directors

Mohammed Ali (847) 847-2126 | mali@aliminsurance.com

Charles Hruska (708) 798-5700 | chas@hruskains.com

David Jenk, Esq. (312) 239-2717 | djenk@nwibrokers.com

Lindsey Polzin (630) 513-6600 | lpolzin@presidiogrp.com

James Sager (618) 322-9891 | james@sagerins.com

Ray Roentz (618) 639-2244 | ray.roentz@hwcrins.com

Noele Tatlock (309) 642-6855 | ntatlock@unland.com

At-Large Director | Amiri Curry (847) 797-5700 | acurry@assuranceagency.com

At-Large Director | Jeff McMillan (815) 265-4037 | jeff@mcmillanins.com

At-Large Director | Patrick Muldowney (312) 595-7192 | patrick.muldowney@alliant.com

At-Large Director | Luke Sandrock, CIC (815) 772-2793 | lsandrock@2cornerstone.com

Committee Chairs

Budget & Finance | Cindy Jackman, CIC, CISR (800) 878-9891 x8745 | cjackman@arlingtonroe.com

Education | Lisa Lukens (618) 942-2556 | salibainsurance@gmail.com

Farm Agents Council | Steve Foster (217) 965-4663 | s.foster@ciagonline.com

Government Relations | Dustin Peterson (217) 935-6605 | dustin@peterson.insurance

Planning & Coordination | Nick Gunn, CIC (309) 691-1300 | nickgunn@nixonagency.com

Technology | Brian Ogden (217) 632-2206 | brian@ogdeninsurance.com

Young Agents | Renee Crissie (224) 217-6577 | renee@crissieins.com

Director of Information and Technology Shannon Churchill - (217) 321-3004 - schurchill@iiaofil.org

Director of Education and Agency Resources Brett Gerger, CIC - (217) 321-3006 - bgerger@iiaofil.org

Accounting & Admin Services Tami Hubbell, CIC - (217) 321-3016 - thubbell@iiaofil.org

Director of Human Resources, Board Admin Jennifer Jacobs, SHRM-CP - (217) 321-3013 - jjacobs@iiaofil.org

Sr. Vice President/Chief Financial Officer Mark Kuchar - (217) 321-3015 - mkuchar@iiaofil.org

Chief Executive Officer Phil Lackman, IOM - (217) 321-3005 - plackman@iiaofil.org

Central/Southern Marketing Representative Lori Mahorney, CISR Elite - (217) 415-7550 - lmahorney@iiaofil.org

Director of Government Relations Evan Manning - (217) 321-3002 - emanning@iiaofil.org

Office Administrator Kristi Osmond, CISR - (217) 321-3007 - kosmond@iiaofil.org

Director of Communications Rachel Romines

- (217) 321-3024 - rromines@iiaofil.org

Director of Membership Services Tom Ross, CRIS, CPIA - (217) 321-3003 - tross@iiaofil.org

Products & Services Administrator Janet White, CISR - (217) 321-3010 - jwhite.indep12@insuremail.net

Director of Prof. Liability & Ins. Products Carol Wilson, CPIA - (217) 321-3011 - cwilson@ilbigi.org

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IIA of IL Board of Directors

The objectives of the Association shall be to maintain a high standard of integrity and to promote harmony in the insurance business in Illinois; to adopt and enforce such rules as the interest of the public, insurance business and membership may require; to interpret the needs of the insurance public to insurance companies; to sponsor high qualifications for those engaged in the insurance business; to represent the interests of the members before governmental, regulatory and legislative bodies; and to do all things necessary toward the betterment of the profession of the members and the service of their business needs.

Kevin Lesch, CBC

Chairperson

Kevin Lesch began his insurance career in 2000 when he joined his father’s agency. In 2013 he took over as president, and acquired the agency in 2015. In 2017 he merged with another Bartlett agency and founded Àrachas Group, LLC a Keystone Agency Partner and is currently COO.

Árachas Group, LLC

PO Box 8152 Bartlett, IL 60103 (630) 830-3232

klesch@arachasgroup.com

Family:

Spouse: Trisha

Sons: Jacob & Gavin

Allyson Padilla, AAI

President

Allyson Padilla was born into Blank’s Insurance Agency but began her insurance career full-time in 2008. The agency provides all types of insurance and bonds, including personal lines and commercial insurance. She works in all facets of the agency but is primarily focused on commercial lines, agency marketing, and advertising.

Blank’s Insurance Agency

515 S. Whittle Ave. - PO Box 69, Olney, IL 62450

(618) 393-2195

allyson@blanksinsurance.com

Family:

Spouse: Angel

Sons: Angel Julian, Bennett & Cruz

Patrick Taphorn, CIC, CSRM

President-Elect

Patrick Taphorn was hired out of college in 1989 with Unland Insurance & Benefits in an Accounting & Operations position and moved into a sales role in 1994. He took over as President in January of 2016 and still has agent responsibilities. He oversees all four agency locations. Unland Insurance & Benefits provides P&C, Life, Health & Employee Benefits, HR and Financial Services.

Unland Insurance & Benefits

2211 Broadway Road, Pekin, IL 61554 (309) 347-2177

ptaphorn@unland.com

Family:

Spouse: Lisa

Children: Nathan, Carter, Jenna, & Justin

Vice President Thomas Evans, Jr.

Thomas Evans, Jr. has been in the insurance industry since 1996 starting out at Insure One. He then moved to Esser Hayes Insurance Group, and Crum-Halsted Agency before joining Biglow & Company, Inc. (Assured Partners).

Biglow & Company, Inc. (Assured Partners)

11 Nippersink Blvd, Fox Lake, IL 60020 (847) 587-2155

tom.evans@assuredpartners.com

National

Family:

Spouse: Rebecca

Daughters: Ashley & Aly

Sons: Tommy (III) & Tyler

Dog: Cody

George Daly

Director - IIABA

George Daly entered the insurance industry in 1984, working with Allstate and Insure One before joining The Horton Group in 2005, where he’s President of the Personal Insurance Division. The Horton Group started in 1971 and is one of the top 50 largest insurance agencies in the country.

The Horton Group, Inc.

10320 Orland Pkwy, Orland Park, IL 60467 (708) 845-3311

george.daly@thehortongroup.com

Family:

Spouse: Margie

Daughters: Katie and Erin

Son: George

Secretary/Treasurer Cindy Jackman, CIC, CISR, CPIA

Cindy Jackman began her career in 1984. After 34 years on the retail agency side, she joined Arlington/Roe and is now the IL Sales & Marketing Manager. Cindy has served the IIA of IL in some capacity since the late 1980’s and enjoys helping the independent agents enhance and grow their agencies.

Arlington/Roe

PO Box 2614, Carbondale, IL 62902 (618) 201-1265

cjackman@arlingtonroe.com

Family:

Spouse: Jon

Children: Kristin (Ryan) & Troy

Bonus Children: Amy (& Jim), 1 Granddaughter Cassie (& Jeff), 2 Granddaughters Jessica (& Darren), 3 Grandsons

IIA of IL Directors

Mohammed Ali

Mohammed started as an intern at Near North Insurance Brokerage in 2000 where he worked until 2003. He then moved to Global Benefits Inc. until 2012 before starting Alim Insurance Brokerage. The agency focuses on personal lines, commercial lines, and professional liability insurance. Outside of the agency, Mohammed serves on the Board of Directors at Evanston Chamber of Commerce, where he was President in 2021.

Alim Insurance Brokerage & Risk Management

820 Davis St Ste 215, Evanston, IL 60201 (847) 847-2126 mali@aliminsurance.com

Family:

Wife: Mira

Sons: Mikhail, Ibrahim

Daughters: Aaliyah, Noura

Charles Hruska, IV, CIC, AU, AINS

Charles Hruska, IV started his insurance career in 2011 with internships. In 2014, he joined Seneca Insurance Company as an underwriting assistant, moving up to Senior Underwriter. Charles then joined his family’s agency in 2018 as Executive Vice President. Hruska Insurancenter, Inc. (now Arthur J Gallagher RMS) was started in 1950 by Charles’s grandfather and the agency’s focus is mainly commercial lines supported by personal lines.

Arthur J Gallagher RMS, Inc.

10040 W 190th Pl., Mokena, IL 60448

chas_hruska@ajg.com

(708) 719-3770

Family:

Wife: Ellese

Son: Charlie

David Jenk, Esq.

David Jenk began his insurance career over 17 years ago in while in college. He moved on to earn a degree in law, staying focused on the insurance industry. David is now the Executive Director of Northwest Insurance Brokers. The firm was founded in 1956 and offers all lines of personal and commercial insurance.

Northwest Insurance Brokers

209 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606 (312) 239-2717

djenk@nwibrokers.com

Family:

Spouse: Lucyna

Dog: Fozzie Bear

Lindsey Polzin, CIC

Lindsey Polzin started her insurance career in 2000 working for her family’s agency in the personal lines division. In 2005, she moved over to the commercial side of the agency. Her family’s agency merged with other local agencies to form Presidio, an Acrisure Agency Partner where Lindsey currently serves as Executive Vice PresidentOperations.

Presidio

55 Shuman Blvd. Ste 900, Naperville, IL 60563 (630) 513-6600

lpolzin@presidiogrp.com

Family:

Spouse: Tim

Sons: Nick and Kevin

Ray Roentz, CIC

In 2012, Ray Roentz joined Heneghan, White, Cutting & Rice Insurance Agency providing personal, commercial, life, farm, and crop insurance to clients in Illinois, Missouri, and Colorado. In 2021, Ray purchased a majority ownership of the agency and is now President of Heneghan, White, Cutting and Roentz Insurance.

Heneghan-White-Cutting & Roentz Ins. Agency

200 N. State Street, Jerseyville, IL 62052 (618) 639-2244 ray.roentz@hwcrins.com

Family:

Spouse: Karla

Children: Rocho, Robert and Loretta

James Sager

James Sager founded Sager Insurance Group in 2022. James has also been a producer for Premier Crop Insurance since 2014. Out of the agency, James currently serves as the fundraising chairman for Salem Community High School Academic Foundation, as a director for Greater Salem Chamber of Commerce, and as a founding board member of Little Egypt CEO program.

Sager Insurance Group, LLC

105 N 3rd St, Dahlgren, IL 62828 (618) 736-2394

james@sagerins.com

Family:

Wife: Amber

Children: Edison & Reid

Noele Tatlock

Noele Tatock has spent ten years in the insurance industry and joined Unland Insurance & Benefits in October of 2019 as an agent in Personal Lines and Small Business. She is now the Personal Lines Division Manager. The agency provides Commercial & Personal P&C, Life, Health & Employee Benefits, and financial services.

Unland Insurance & Benefits

2211 Broadway Rd., Pekin, IL 61554 (309) 642-6855

ntatlock@unland.com

Family:

Sons: Drew and Dylan

Dog: English Bulldog, Sarge

IIA of IL At-Large Board Members

Amiri Curry, ARM, AIS, AINS

Amiri Curry began his insurance career in 1993 in Life & Health customer service. After leaving the industry to work in financial services, he returned to insurance in 2007, eventually joining Assurance, a full-service brokerage, in 2016. Assurance is a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC.

Assurance Agency, Ltd.

20 North Martingale Road, Schaumburg, IL 60173

amiri.curry@MarshMMA.com

(847) 463-7280

Family:

Spouse: Sandra

Children: Four Boys

Jeff McMillan, LUTCF

Jeff McMillan became licensed in 1989 and started working with Prudential in 1990 selling life insurance and investments. In 1992, he formed McMillan Insurance Services, Inc. and has purchased several agencies through the years. Jeff is a current Farm Agents Council Board Member.

McMillan Insurance Services, Inc.

309 S Crescent St, Gilman, IL 60938 (815) 265-4037

jeff@mcmillanins.com

Family:

Spouse: Lisa

Children: Jack & Sam

This is your association and as an insurance specialist familiar with the challenges your business faces, your insights and expertise can help shape the future of our association and industry. Your involvement will ensure that the IIA of IL remains a leading resource and advocate for independent agents. Association involvement can help you expand your network, increase your industry knowledge and exposure to developing trends and products, and grow in your profession. Get started by:

Patrick Muldowney, JD

Patrick Muldowney began his career at Kemper Insurance Companies in 1993. Seven years ago he joined Alliant Insurance Services where he is currently a Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel. The agency is the largest specialty brokerage in the U.S., focused on construction, public entity, education, real estate, healthcare, tribal nations, and legal professionals.

Alliant Insurance Services

353 N Clark Street, 11th Floor Chicago, IL 60654 (312) 595-7192

patrick.muldowney@alliant.com

Family:

Spouse: Lisa Son: Sean

Luke Sandrock

Luke Sandrock began his career in insurance 2009 after graduating from Monmouth College. He joined the family agency, Cornerstone Agency, where he is now Partner. The agency concentrates and specializes in crop, farm and agri-business insurance. Luke is a current Farm Agents Council Board Member.

Cornerstone Agency, Inc.

102 W. Main St., Morrison, IL 61270 (815) 772-2793

lsandrock@2cornerstone.com

Family:

Spouse: Ashleigh

Children: Breckon, Jack, and Remrey

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IIA of IL Committee Chairs

Lisa Lukens, CISR Elite

Education

Lisa Lukens started in the agency in 1981 working full-time while attending school at SIU. Saliba Insurance, opening the doors in 1963, merged with Yewell Insurance in 1990 and offers both personal and commercial insurance.

Saliba-Yewell Ins. Services

P.O. Box 218, Herrin, IL 62948 (618) 942-2556 salibainsurance@gmail.com

Family:

Children: Tyler & Erin

Farm Agents Council Steven Foster

Steven Foster received his Bachelors Degree from Blackburn College. He started his insurance career in 2006 with a captive company, then joined Musso Insurance Agency in 2011 where he is now an agency owner. The agency has locations in Virden, Waverly, and Springfield.

Musso Insurance Agency 136 E. Dean St., Virden, IL 62690 (217) 965-4663

s.foster@ciagonline.com

Family:

Spouse: Anne

Children: Gwen, Kendall, & Kathleen

Dustin Peterson

Government Relations

Dustin

Peterson Insurance Services, Inc. PO Box 377, Clinton, IL 61727 (217) 935-6605 dustin@peterson.insurance

Family:

Spouse: Jessica

Children: Julian & Vivian

Dogs: Aggie

Peterson is the 3rd generation member of the agency, joining the agency in December 2003. He currently serves as Risk Manager, covering all lines of insurance for the agency.

Nick Gunn, CIC

Planning & Coordination

Nick Gunn started his career in 2006 at Nixon Insurance Agency, Inc. After a brief stint at another agency, he made his way back to Nixon and became part owner and Vice President of Commercial Insurance in 2018.

Nixon Insurance Agency 4701 N. University, Ste B, Peoria, IL 61612 (309) 691-1300

nickgunn@nixonagency.com

Family: Spouse: Jessica Children: Tripp and Cash

Brian Ogden, CIC, AFIS

Technology

Brian Ogden is a second generation owner of Ogden Insurance Agency. His father started in the insurance business in 1959 in the same small town. The agency offers Personal Lines, Commercial Lines, Farm, Crop Life and Health.

Ogden Insurance Agency 123 E. Douglas, Petersburg, IL 62675 (217) 632-2206

brian@ogdeninsurance.com

Family:

Spouse: Kim

Children: Lauren & Jonathan

Renee Crissie

Young Agents

Renee joined the family business right out of college and has worked side by side with her family to learn all areas of the business and help grow the agency. She began her career in Commercial Lines and took on to Employee Benefits in 2010 as Health Care Reform took off.

Crissie Insurance Group 6400 Shafer Ct, Suite 600, Rosemont, IL 60018 (224) 217-6577

renee@crissieins.com

Family: Youngest of three 4 Nieces and 1 Nephew

AIS Board Bill Lawrence, CIC

Bill Lawrence received his producer’s license in March of 1999 and bought his first agency in April of that year. He sold that agency in 2003 and purchased P/L/R Insurance Services. The agency joined Gallagher Risk Management Services in March of 2023. The agency is primarily a P&C agency with group and individual life and health accounts.

Gallagher Risk Management Services, LLC 139 N. Williamsburg Dr., Bloomington, IL 61704 (309) 827-0007

bill_lawrence@ajg.com

Family: Spouse: Jan

Three Children & Six Grandchildren

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She understands better than anyone what the to the IIA means and how it impacts the industry, customers, and our agency.

PADILLA

the commitment industry, our

Congratulations on your induction as President of the IIA of IL. Tell us how you first got involved with the IIA of IL.

Thank you! Our agency has always been a member of the Association. I started attending events far before my career in insurance began. The first time I can remember attending an event was the Convention that my mom, Julie Hearring, became President of the Association in 1998; however, I personally got involved, volunteering with the Young Agents Committee in October of 2011.

Tell us a little about how you started the industry?

Like many members, I have been around insurance my entire life; I am the 4th generation in our agency. I worked in my family agency in high school, filing and doing other tasks, worked a few summers in college taking photos and putting together proposals. Then, in 2008, my husband and I moved from the Chicago area back to my hometown, and I began working full-time in my family agency.

What do you find the most fulfilling about being an insurance agent?

Some may have heard me say this before: I’m not a teacher, or an artist, and I sure as heck can’t help you fix your car or service your appliances, but insurance I can do.

I feel like this is how I can help my community, provide them with peace of mind and understanding, and walk them through what can be confusing and sometimes overwhelming situations.

What challenges have you faced during your career, and how have you overcome them?

When I think about overcoming career challenges, I do not think necessarily about one specific event.

In general, when overcoming challenges, I tend to lean in on the experience around me. I talk with mentors and friends about how they have handled similar challenges. Also, being honest and upfront is the best approach in any difficult situation.

What other professions have you had?

How far back shall we go? I have worked in some capacity since I was 14 years old. My first job, with a real W-2, was at a local restaurant. I’ve worked as a lifeguard, in retail, and marketing. After college and prior to returning to Olney to work in the agency, I worked in both commercial and residential real estate.

What made you want to go through the Executive Committee Chairs?

The opportunity to give back to the industry and work and learn from some of the very best agents in the business was my motivation to go through the Chairs.

They do understand my work is important, whether that is in my agency with my customers or the work I am doing with the Association.

What new ideas and initiatives are you looking forward to implementing?

We will be focusing on a few items on this year. Helping revive our Young Agents Network is a big priority, as well as raising awareness and funds for both IIAPAC and InsurePAC. Additionally, I’ll be working with the Technology Committee to assist our membership in the difficult and often overwhelming task of researching and analyzing different technologies for our agencies.

We all know the industry has faced many changes in the last two decades, especially the last few years. What do you see as some of the major industry issues in the immediate future?

The issue we will continue to deal with in the immediate future is, of course, the hard market and the changes it is bringing to the industry. We will have to navigate further changes from our carrier partners and potentially legislatively as well. Our customers need a trusted advisor and advocate, maybe more than ever right now. While the increases and uncertainty are difficult to manage, it is the time when Independent Agents can prove that insurance is not just a commodity and the value we provide to our customers.

Looking down the road five, ten years, what other issues do you see independent agents facing?

The largest issue that I see the majority of our membership is facing is staffing. Being able to find stable, qualified employees who want to learn and work in the insurance industry and our agencies long-term is tough. So much of our business is learned when working day to day in our offices and being able to collaborate and discuss. Work-from-home models make this a bit harder to do. In addition, it creates a struggle to build and maintain a culture that can engage employees long-term.

What about issues the IIA of IL will have to address? The Association is facing an ever-changing “customer” base. I believe the biggest task for the Association will be to decipher how to best serve the needs of this varied membership. Large agencies vs. small agencies, rural vs. agencies in a metro market, and even agents who specialize in different niches or types of insurance.

The IIA is working towards identifying those needs and working with volunteer agents to help provide products and services that will help provide the member agents with a competitive advantage.

In your opinion, what are the key benefits of membership with the IIA of IL?

Relationships, Advocacy, and Education. As I mentioned previously, each agency comes to the Association for their own reason. However, those three items are what brought our agency to the Association in the beginning and have proven time and time again why we continue to participate. No one is able to provide me and my agency with a better pulse on the industry and what is happening in the state.

How has association membership affected your life both personally and professionally?

As the old saying goes, iron sharpens iron. Throughout my involvement with the IIA, I have learned from and worked with some of the very best insurance agents in the business. My interactions have helped me in all facets of my business, from carrier interactions and human resource matters to sales and operations. In addition, throughout my entire life, the Association has blessed me and my family with some of the best friends and mentors I could have ever asked for.

Do you have a personal motto or creed by which you live?

Yes, to paraphrase Luke 12:48, “To whom much is given, much is expected.” I have been blessed in my life, and I feel that giving back and helping where I can, whether that is time, talent, or treasure, is the very least I can do.

Tell us about your family. How do they feel about your new role with the IIA of IL?

I am married with three children. My husband Angel and I have been married for 18 years. While he is very busy in his own career, he truly understands our involvement in the IIA and why it is so important to our agency and me. My boys are 14, 12, and 9 years old. Their thoughts and feelings mostly surround sports and video games, not anything Mom does. However, they do understand my

work is important, whether that is in my agency with my customers or the work I am doing with the Association. I would be remiss if I did not mention my mom. She, of course understands better than anyone what the commitment to the IIA means and how it impacts the industry, our customers, and our agency. I also hope she thinks it’s pretty neat I have followed in her path.

What do you like to do in your spare time (hobbies, personal interests)?

Currently, I like to drive athletes to various sporting events and watch them compete. However, outside of watching our boys in their various activities, I love to travel, listen to audiobooks, and spend time outside.

What lessons from your personal life have you incorporated into your business career?

Being kind, honest, and respectful to all was not just an example and expectation I was given as I was growing up but the example I was given as I was able to work with my Grandfather and Mother.

What is one fact about you that people would find surprising?

I do not think that I’m a very “surprising” person. But I have a greatly varied taste in music. From Broadway show tunes to 90s rap and 80s boy bands and, I’ve seen Bob Dylan in concert five times.

Finally, when all is said and done, what is the most important message you hope IIA of IL members take away from your Presidency? After this year, I hope that all members can see at least one new way that the IIA of IL is providing them with a competitive advantage to grow, advance, and/or perpetuate their business into the future - whether that is through a new service, education, new relationships created at an event, or through the advocacy work happening in Springfield. The Association staff and the volunteer agents serving on boards, committees, and task forces are working for the members and the betterment of the IA channel.

JM Wilson Hires Fritz as Assistant Marine Underwriter

JM Wilson is excited to announce the addition of Amy Fritz as Assistant Marine Underwriter. Her responsibilities include providing vital support to underwriters on a wide variety of new and renewal marine risks, as well as maintaining relationships with carrier underwriters and independent insurance agents in all states that JM Wilson writes.

Prior to joining JM Wilson, Amy gained experience as a paralegal at a law firm specializing in insurancerelated litigation. Additionally, she served as a claim representative for State Farm handling a range of cases including PIP, Fire and Casualty, and S.I.U. Amy is a graduate of Davenport University, where she earned an associate degree in computer technology support. In addition, she has earned CPCU (Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter), AIC (Associate in Claims), and AIDA (Associate in Insurance Data Analytics) designations.

JM Wilson Adds Osborne as Brokerage Underwriter and McHugh as Assistant Underwriter

JM Wilson is pleased to announce the addition of a new Brokerage Underwriter and Assistant Underwriter. April Osborne joins as Brokerage Underwriter. Her responsibilities include underwriting a wide variety of new and renewal professional and brokerage accounts, as well as maintaining relationships with carrier underwriters and independent insurance agents in all states that JM Wilson writes. April brings with her 11 years of underwriting experience in the mortgage industry.

Sean McHugh joins as Assistant Brokerage Underwriter. He is responsible for providing vital support to underwriters with a diverse range of new and renewal professional and brokerage accounts. Prior to joining JM Wilson, Sean served as an account representative at an employee benefits consulting firm for four years. Additionally, he holds a master’s degree in Athletics Administration from Western Michigan University, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Youth Program Management from Michigan State University.

RMIC Appoints New Chief Operating Officer

Robert Jacobson, CIOP, CXAP, LSSBB, CIC, Chief Operating Officer, joined Rockford Mutual September 5, 2023. Rockford Mutual’s Board of Directors chose Robert Jacobson to work alongside the CEO to develop the strategic long-term vision of the company. Responsible for leading the Underwriting, Claims, Marketing, IT and R&D teams, Rob will ensure that all activities and operations are performed at the highest levels and in compliance with state and federal laws and insurance department statutes.

Rob brings to the role over three decades of property & casualty insurance experience having held senior executive positions with Liberty Mutual, AAA The Auto Club

Group, and most recently Kingstone Insurance Company. Rob’s expertise has focused on operational excellence in Underwriting, Claims and Customer Service, Strategic Design, and Financial Planning.

Rob holds designations in Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB), Customer Experience & Analytics Professional (CXAP), Chartered Insurance Operations Professional (CIOP) and Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC).

SECURA Insurance Named on 2023 RISE Elite 50 Internships List

SECURA Insurance was named on the 2023 Rising Insurance Star Executives (RISE) Elite 50 Internships list, which recognizes the 50 best internship programs in the insurance industry across the U.S. This is the second year SECURA has been named on the list.

RISE recognizes internship programs with high intern satisfaction, meaningful work assignments, opportunities for interns to network with peers and executives, as well as strong diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

“Interns play an important role at SECURA, “ said Lindsey Coons, SECURA HR Representative, “Through meaningful work, collaborative interactions, and impactful networking opportunities, we aim to set our internship experience apart from others. We are honored to be named on the RISE Elite 50 Internships list for the second consecutive year.”

SECURA’s internship program was officially established in 2017, but the company has had interns in a variety of roles for many years. SECURA currently has 55 interns working in various roles and departments, including underwriting, information technology, claims, and project management.

The SECURA internship program is structured to provide interns opportunities to network and work with other interns, full-time associates, and executive team members. The program offers job shadows to help interns find their best fit at the company, and 98% of interns say they would like to stay at SECURA for a full-time position after graduation. In 2022, SECURA hired 70% of graduating interns for full-time positions. SECURA invests in its interns through training opportunities and meaningful work assignments. Company leaders engage with interns to give them autonomy in their workload, so interns can gain experience in areas they want to explore.

The internship program encourages interns to get to know each other through company-hosted events, such as executive roundtables, mini golf, and informative sessions from each major department focusing on entrylevel positions interns can apply for upon graduation. The program also partners with SECURA’s Young Professional Network to offer opportunities to network and advance their careers with other young professionals.

To learn more about SECURA’s internship program, visit secura.net/careers/internships.

Thank you to our Associate Members.

Diamond Level

Platinum Level

Progressive

Surplus Line Association of Illinois

Silver Level

Imperial PFS

IMT Insurance

SECURA Insurance

Gold Level

Arlington/Roe

Blue Cross/Blue Shield of IL

Keystone Insurance Group, Inc.

Pekin Insurance

West Bend Mutual Insurance Co.

Bronze Level

A. J. Wayne & Associates

AAA Insurance

AMERISAFE

AmTrust North America

Auto-Owners Insurance Co.

Badger Mutual Insurance Company

Berkley Management Protection

Berkley Small Business Solutions

Berkshire Hathaway Guard Insurance Companies

BluSky Restoration Contractors

BriteCo Jewelry & Watch Insurance

Central Illinois Mutual Insurance Company

Chubb

Columbia Insurance Group

Continental Western Group

Cornerstone National Insurance Company

Cowbell Cyber

Donald Gaddis Company, Inc.

Donegal Insurance Group

EMC Insurance

Encova Insurance

Erie Insurance Group

Foremost Choice Property & Casualty

Forreston Mutual Insurance Company

Frankenmuth Insurance

Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company

IA Valuations

Illinois Mine Subsidence Ins. Fund

Illinois Public Risk Fund

Indiana Farmers Insurance

Insurance

J M Wilson

Program Managers Group

Liberty Mutual/Safeco Insurance

Madison Mutual Insurance Company

Main Street America Insurance

Maximum Independent Brokerage, LLC

Mercury Insurance Group

Method Workers Comp

Midwest Insurance Company

Nationwide

NHRMA Mutual Workers’ Compensation

Previsor Insurance & Missouri Employers Mutual

PuroClean Disaster Services

Rockford Mutual Insurance Company

ServiceMaster DSI

SERVPRO of Gurnee

Society Insurance

SPRISKA - Specialty Risk of America

Steadily Travelers

UFG Insurance

UIG - The Agent Agency

Utica National Insurance Group

W. A. Schickedanz Agency, Inc./Interstate Risk Placement

Western National Insurance

Westfield

Blank’s Insurance Agency Receives Prestigious Award

During the ARM of IL meeting in August, Blank’s Insurance Agency in Olney, IL received the prestigious “Prairie State Insurance Cooperative Producer & Agency of the Year” award. ARM of IL Executive Director Craig Payan presented the award to Allyson Padilla and Julie Hearring, pictured. This is a traveling trophy ARM of IL awards each year at their summer meeting.

Congratulations to everyone at Blank’s Insurance Agency!

EMC has the knowledge and expertise to protect every square inch of your clients’ needs. And with over 110 years of experience, we’ve become the jack of all trades — from general contractors to electricians to excavators.

You know the drill: emcins.com/contractors-agents

When it comes to protecting your contractor clients Let EMC do the heavy lifting.

Keystone Insurers Group named Arachas Group, LLC its 2023 Illinois Agency of the Year

Keystone Insurers Group named Arachas Group, LLC its 2023 Illinois Agency of the Year at Keystone’s national conference in September.

The award recognizes the agency within each of its states that best exemplifies Keystone’s mission: “Independence works better together.” Criteria includes demonstrating a commitment to growth through leadership mentoring, engaging in technology advancements, employing best practices to improve operations, and developing new income streams to strengthen their business diversity.

Konen Insurance and Joseph M. Wiedemann & Sons Insurance were also recognized as Keystone’s Illinois Premier Agencies.

Congratulations!

October 26-27

Virtual Event

16 hours of IL CE credit

CE Available in other States, contact IIA of IL for details

This institute addresses the unique insurance coverage needs of individuals, families, and family members. You will learn to handle the complexities of state-specific personal lines forms. Topics covered: Personal Residential Coverages*, Personal Automobile Coverages*, Personal Automobile Coverages*, Watercraft Coverages, Rental Car Coverages, Flood, Home-based Business, Condominiums, Farm and Ranch Coverages, Mobile Home Coverages, No Fault (PIP), and more!

www.iiaofil.org/education

New Members member agency

For information regarding IIA of IL membership or company sponsorship, contact Tom Ross, Director of Membership Services, at (217) 321-3003, tross@iiaofil.org.

Darin Seibel Insurance Agency Bartonville, IL

Jay Paul Langfelder Bartlett, IL

Steadily Overland Park, KS

Universal Property & Casualty Fort Lauderdale, FL

bronze associate member

Illinois Mutual Peoria, IL

Jump Suit Group, Inc. Maynard, MA

SAYATA Boston, MA

copper associate member

for

the insurance professional by the insurance professional

LOOKING FOR AN EXIT STRATEGY?

23. Are you looking for an exit strategy while still continuing to produce for a few years or are you ready to sell now? Paczolt Insurance would like to talk with you! We are an independent agency dating back to the 1970s that is located in the western suburbs. Our focus is on mid-to-small commercial accounts and personal lines. Our companies include EMC, Badger Mutual, Safeco, Progressive, and Travelers. We have the flexibility and capital to get a deal done. Contact:

Susan Troppito

Paczolt Insurance

susan@piaigroup.com

(708) 215-5202

AGENCY OR BOOK OF BUSINESS FOR SALE

34. Small established agency in southern Illinois for sale. Can be sold as just the book of business or the physical location. The book of business includes personal and commercial P&C as well as individual and group medical. The physical location includes the building as well as furniture.

For details, contact Tami Hubbell at the IIA of IL: thubbell@iiaofil.org or (217) 321-3016 and reference blind ad #34.

INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENCIES WANTED

17. We are an Independent family-owned agency located in the Chicago area. We are looking to expand through growth and acquisition. If you have a small to medium sized agency and are looking to sell, call or send us a message. We are strictly looking for Personal Lines and Small Commercial accounts with preferred companies.

GALO Insurance Agency, Inc

(847) 832-0888

steve@galoagency.com

We Make Hiring Easier +

CareerPlug’s hiring software helps agents attract more qualified candidates, identify the right candidates with confidence, and improve hiring results.

IIA of IL members have access to a free account that can be used to post jobs, manage applicants, and improve the organizations’ employment brand. Association members can also access a “Pro” version of CareerPlug for a special rate to take hiring to the next level.

Learn more about CareerPlug and check out the IIA of IL job board at www.iiaofil.org.

AGENCY/AGENTS/PRODUCERS WANTED

02. Forest Park/Oak Park agency for over 60 years, will meet your needs by providing space, markets, marketing & sales support, automation, merging with or purchasing your agency. Perpetuation/ Succession Plans, BuySell Agreements also available. We have experienced, educated and dedicated staff for you and your clients. Have access to our numerous companies, office services and many other resources. Retain ownership in your book with contingency. Please look closely at us- we are an agency you want to do business with! We’ve done it before, we know how- we make it easy! Visit our website at forestagency.com/agents.html, or call for a confidential discussion and a list of Agency benefits.

Dan Browne will provide an agency evaluation/appraisal at little cost to you. Please call:

Dan Browne or Cathy Hall

Forest Insurance

(708) 383-9000

www.forestinsured.com/mergers-acquisitions

OPPORTUNITIES/SPACE AVAILABLE/RETAIN OWNERSHIP

13. We are a 100 year old Northbrook agency looking to discuss any mutually beneficial opportunity. Our producers, mergers, clusters and agency purchases receive 50% commissions on new and renewal business without any expenses. We can provide: office space, phones, agency management system, service renewals and changes. The companies we represent are: Badger Mutual, Employers Mutual, General Casualty, Guide One, Hartford, Kemper, Progressive, Rockford Mutual, Safeco, State Auto, Travelers and Met Life. Contact:

Nancy Solomon

Martini, Miller & Schloss, Inc.

(847) 291-1313

Ron@martini-miller.com

AGENCY WANTED

20. Since 2004, Central Illinois Agents Group LLC has been providing independent agents with a variety of markets with contingency opportunities. Agents have availability to several markets that they may not be able to sustain or maintain on their own. We have markets for personal, commercial, agricultural and crop insurance lines. Let us help you get to the next level.

Visit www.ciagonline.com