•
•
•
•
•
INSIGHT
Right People, Right Seats Building Corporate
Culture
- Preserving a Legacy
Genuine relationships
SECURA’s team of insurance experts is making insurance genuine. They are here to support you and your clients. Our underwriting teams are quick to reply, open-minded, and know their stuff. Plus they are backed by our caring claims group who will get your clients back on their feet.
Interested in building a relationship? Contact us at secura.net/IL-agents
Hear from our experts
Want to learn more about what SECURA has to offer?
Scan the QR code or visit secura.net/IL-agents for more information about the SECURA team.
Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Chairman of the Board - Kevin Lesch klesch09@gmail.com
President - Allyson Padilla allyson@blanksinsurance.com
President-Elect - Patrick Taphorn, CIC, CSRM ptaphorn@unland.com
Vice President - Thomas Evans, Jr. tom.evans@assuredpartners.com
Secretary/Treasurer - Cindy Jackman, CIC, CISR cjackman@arlingtonroe.com
IIABA National Director - George Daly george.daly@thehortongroup.com
Directors
Mohammed Ali - mali@aliminsurance.com
Amiri Curry - acurry@assuranceagency.com
Charles Hruska - chas@hruskains.com
David Jenk, Esq. - djenk@nwibrokers.com
Jeff McMillan - jeff@mcmillanins.com
Patrick Muldowney - patrick.muldowney@alliant.com
Lindsey Polzin - lpolzin@presidiogrp.com
Ray Roentz - ray.roentz@hwcrins.com
James Sager - james@sagerins.com
Luke Sandrock, CIC - lsandrock@2cornerstone.com
Noele Tatlock - ntatlock@unland.com
Committee Chairs
Budget & Finance | Cindy Jackman, CIC, CISR cjackman@arlingtonroe.com
Education | Lisa Lukens salibainsurance@gmail.com
Farm Agents Council | Steve Foster s.foster@ciagonline.com
Government Relations | Dustin Peterson dustin@peterson.insurance
Planning & Coordination | Nick Gunn, CIC ngunn@envisionins.com
Technology | Brian Ogden brian@ogdeninsurance.com
Young Agents | Renee Crissie rcrissie@acrisure.com
Follow us on socials.
Big I Illinois Staff
Insurance Products Administrator
Director of Information and Technology
Director of Education and Agency Resources
Accounting & Admin Services
Director of Human Resources, Board Admin
Sr. Vice President/Chief Financial Officer
Chief Executive Officer
Director of Membership Services
Director of Government Relations
Office Administrator
Director of Communications
Marketing Representative
Director of Professional
&
Products
Rebecca Buchanan (217) 321-3010 - rbuchanan@ilbigi.org
Shannon Churchill (217) 321-3004 - schurchill@ilbigi.org
Brett Gerger, CIC (217) 321-3006 - bgerger@ilbigi.org
Tami Hubbell, CIC (217) 321-3016 - thubbell@ilbigi.org
Jennifer Jacobs, SHRM-CP (217) 321-3013 - jjacobs@ilbigi.org
Mark Kuchar (217) 321-3015 - mkuchar@ilbigi.org
Phil Lackman, IOM (217) 321-3005 - plackman@ilbigi.org
Lori Mahorney, CISR Elite (217) 415-7550 - lmahorney@ilbigi.org
Evan Manning (217) 321-3002 - emanning@ilbigi.org
Kristi Osmond, CISR Elite (217) 321-3007 - kosmond@ilbigi.org
Rachel Romines (217) 321-3024 - rromines@ilbigi.org
Tom Ross, CRIS, CPIA (217) 321-3003 - tross@ilbigi.org
Carol Wilson, CPIA (217) 321-3011 - cwilson@ilbigi.org
WEST BEND
THE BEST REMEDY FOR WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
West Bend has a long history of writing workers’ compensation insurance. Our underwriters are knowledgeable and experienced. Our loss control reps have the expertise and tools to help keep employees safe. And our claims practices are the best in class.
From Main Street-type businesses to specialty businesses like food trucks, West Bend has the experience and expertise to protect businesses of many kinds and many sizes. We want to write all of your workers’ compensation business, small to large!
When you select West Bend for your valued customers, you can rest assured you made the right choice. After all, we are the best remedy for workers’ compensation.
To find an agent near you, visit thesilverlining.com.
Wait, what?! It’s September? As with most of life, except maybe those long online CE classes, the past 12 months have flown by! Whether you have spent time gazing at the heavens or buckled down at your desk, I’m sure you can agree that this year has, yet again, been one for the record books. Reflecting back, it is easy for me to see now that a great deal has been accomplished and that there is much to celebrate.
In the past year, we went BIG, starting with the state association rebrand to Big I Illinois. To play on words here, we initiated a BIG (I) name change and new website, we have celebrated BIG (I) wins at the Capitol in Springfield. Behind the scenes, the Board of Directors and all of our committees have met, made plans, and executed BIG (I) goals, working hard on behalf of our member agents. The Big I Illinois staff and all of the volunteer members have focused on growing talent in the IA channel, bringing real tangible solutions to our members, and targeting those benefits to the correct groups of member agents. I am proud of the work we have done and look forward to all that can be accomplished in the future. As the landscape of our agencies, our company partners, and our industry as a whole continues to change and evolve, it is ever so important to remember that OUR association is persistently working on OUR behalf to continue to provide us a “sustainable, competitive advantage” for another 125 years!
Many of my non-insurance friends have asked why I chose to take on this role and dedicate my time to this organization. For me, the answer is simple. This industry and association have given so much to my agency, my family, and me that it only feels right that I should give back. Big I Illinois has brought our agency quality education, business solutions, and carrier partner opportunities. They have fought for our industry and on behalf of our clients in Springfield and Washington. Our association makes our industry better, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
As most of you know, my agency has always been very actively involved in the association. Most also know that 25 years ago, my mother held the same role I have been honored to serve for the past year. Because of this, even though I have only been working in insurance for over 16 years, I have attended insurance association events for as long as I can remember. As a young person, I traveled to events and meetings, gaining much knowledge along the way. I have been so fortunate to learn and work alongside some of my best friends and greatest mentors. They have guided me through difficult decisions and conversations. I have been able to celebrate weddings, birthdays, children, and accomplishments with my association family, and they have provided support and comfort in difficult times as well. And, when it really comes down to it, no matter how much AI, technology, and electronic communication there is, insurance is really just a people business, and our association, from its staff to our members, has some of the best people around.
I am better because of my involvement in Big I Illinois, and I don’t think any words I share can truly express how appreciative I am to have had this opportunity. Thank you to the staff, the Board of Directors (past and present), and our member agents. It has been my honor to serve as your President.
With most sincere regards, Allyson Padilla
Preserving a Legacy
From its humble beginnings as a volunteer-run association operating out of an insurance agency, to an association guided by volunteers and staffed by professionals in its headquarters office, the association has undoubtedly seen many changes in the last 125 years. But if there has been one constant, it is that talented and dedicated people have cared enough about the industry and its cause to fight for fair and sound legislative proposals, preserve professionalism in the business, provide a competitive advantage for association members, and preserve the legacy of this organization.
Following is a profile of those who have been instrumental in leading and preserving the Big I Illinois legacy, and a snapshot of where they were headquartered.
Shirley Moisant
Though not a paid employee of the association, Shirley Moisant was Past President of the Illinois Association of Insurance Agents in 1913-1914, and then served for many years as the Secretary. He was the first Editor and Publisher of Association News which he produced monthly in the 1920s for approximately 1500 subscribers. In 1935, the name of was changed to The American Agency Bulletin and all association members received a complimentary copy. From 1914 to 1934, Shirley Moisant’s Insurance Office, Kankakee, IL served as the first association headquarters.
Lillian Laurie Herring
In 1934, guided by President Alvin S. Keys of Springfield, an agreement was made with the Insurance Federation of Illinois, to use its office in the Insurance Exchange Building in Chicago as the headquarters of the Illinois Association of Insurance Agents. The association headquarters remained in room 616 Insurance Exchange Building until 1957.
Lillian Herring, Acting Secretary of the Insurance Federation of Illinois, was named Secretary of the Illinois Association of Insurance Agents in 1938 and became the organization’s first paid Secretary. In 1942, Lillian Herring took over publication of the Bulletin from Shirley Moisant.
William H. Hamilton
In 1947, William H. Hamilton, Manager of the Chicago Board of Underwriters, was chosen to be Executive Secretary of the Illinois Association of Insurance Agents and he continued in a dual role for a brief period of time. Hamilton passed away in December of 1952 and his successor as Manager of CBU, Bill Krom, served as Interim Executive Manager until a permanent successor could be found.
Edward J. Dirksen
Edward Dirksen was named Executive Secretary in 1953 and he also served as general council for CBU. Dirksen spearheaded the association’s move from Chicago to the Ridgely Building in Springfield to better facilitate the focus on legislative matters. Upon his retirement in 1957, he returned to Springfield where he served briefly with the Illinois Department of Insurance. He had previously been Assistant Director of Insurance for the State of Illinois prior to taking the position at the Illinois Association of Insurance Agents.
George Nicoud
Nicoud was selected to succeed Edward Dirksen in October of 1958. In 1967, Nicoud was honored as President of ISAE (Illinois Society of Association Executives) and in the fall of 1971, Nicoud was the first individual to receive the prestigious Cartwright Merit Award who was not an agent. He served as Executive Director at the association headquarters in the Ridgley Building in downtown Springfield until his untimely death in 1972.
Roy Robinson
Roy Robinson was hired on as Education Director in 1971 and was soon chosen to succeed George Nicoud as Executive Director in 1972. Robinson served in the role until his retirement in 1990. Robinson was passionate about insurance education and received his CPCU designation (Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriter) in 1960 and later served as President of CPCU Chapters in his hometown of Syracuse, NY, and later in Bloomington, IL. He and his wife, Harriett, were proud sponsors of a college scholarship for students interested in insurance careers.
Robinson earned his CAE (Certified Association Executive) in 1975 and served as President of ISAE (Illinois Society of Association Executives) and President of IAAE (Independent Agents Association Executives). Robinson was honored with the Cartwright Award after his retirement.
During Robinson’s tenure at the association, the association staff had outgrown the office at the Ridgley Building, which was described by Past President Jack Payan as “cramped” and “antiquated” and a location one might expect to “see Abraham Lincoln”. During Payan’s presidency, the association leased space in the newly-constructed Realtors Building located just off I-55 at Stevenson Drive.
Michael Tate
Mike Tate joined the association as Chief Operating Officer in 1990. Tate had been elected the youngest State Representative in Illinois and in that capacity served as Assistant Minority Leader and as Spokesman for the Appropriations Committee and Insurance Committees. As a legislator, Tate received numerous awards in recognition of his sound economic policies and ability to effectively represent the concerns of his constituents.
During his tenure with the association, he oversaw the move from the Realtors Building to another leased space, and then the construction of the current building in 1993. He also facilitated the merger of IIAI and PIA, and the ultimate disaffiliation with PIA. In 2003, Tate served as President of the Independent Agent Association Executives (IAAE) association.
Phil Lackman
Mike Tate is pictured first row, far right with association staff in 1993.
Two of these employees in 1993 are still part of association staff today. Can you spot them below?
In 2015, Phil Lackman was named CEO after serving 20 years as the Vice President of Government Relations for the association. He also lobbied for industry organizations including the Illinois Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA IL), Illinois State Association of Health Underwriters (ISAHU) and the Illinois Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (IAMIC). Prior to joining the Big I Illinois, Lackman was Director of Legislative Affairs for the Illinois Life Insurance Council, served as Secretary of State Jim Edgar’s Deputy Director of Legislative Affairs and served as Legislative Analyst with the Senate Republicans.
In 2011, Lackman was elected to a one-year term as Speaker of the Illinois Third House, the professional organization for registered lobbyists in Illinois. In 2016, he was inducted into the Samuel K. Gove Illinois Legislative Intern Hall of Fame, which honors former legislative interns whose careers have exemplified distinguished public service. Most recently, Lackman served as President of the Independent Agent Association Executives (IAAE) association.
Thank You!
From our beginning in 1899 to the present, the great legacy of the association is our members, from presidents to board members to committee and task force members to those who contributed in special ways to our programs and political action committees. They provided the vision for the dedicated staff to carry out.
As we celebrate our association’s 125th anniversary, we want to express our deepest gratitude to all our members. Your unwavering support, dedication, and contributions have been instrumental in making our organization what it is today. Your commitment to our mission has helped us achieve significant milestones and positively impact Illinois’ insurance marketplace and our local communities. Thank you for being a part of our rich history and for continuing to shape our bright future.
- Phil Lackman, CEO
ILLINOIS
Right People, Right Seats Building Corporate Culture
By Nicholas Lamparelli
“Right People, Right Seats” is not merely a hiring strategy, but a holistic approach to talent management that fosters a win-win situation for both employees and the organization. By prioritizing cultural fit, aligning skills with roles, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, companies can create a high-performing workforce that drives innovation, achieves strategic objectives, and secures a sustainable competitive advantage in the ever-evolving business landscape.
To
Small Business Insurance
The traditional coverage your clients need.
The customized options your clients desire.
The affordable price your clients deserve.
We’ve been successfully protecting small businesses since 1983.
Your team works hard for you. So protect them with employee bene ts that work hard for them, available exclusively through your membership to the Big I.
ILLIN O I S
CONVO
October
15-17
Peoria, IL
Marriott Pere Marquette & Civic Center
ANNIVERSARY
CONVO is the premier annual event of the Big I Illinois and includes the Midwest’s largest industry tradeshow. The event is designed for agents to come together for connections, networking, education, industry trends, and of course, fun.
An Experience for Everyone in the Agency!
Earn high-quality Illinois CE credit with industry-driven educational programming. You’ll hear from leading experts and your peers about the latest topics and news that matter most to you. We know you have questions about the event. Let’s go beyond the What, When, and Where and dig deeper into the event.
Schedule
(Times Subject to Change)
Tuesday, October 15
10:00 – 4:00 pm Independent Agent Invitational Golf Outing
1:00 – 4:00 pm Concurrent Education Sessions (CE)
5:00 – 6:00 pm Welcome Reception and Meet & Greet
6:00 – 8:00 pm Dutch Dine Arounds/Company Dinners
6:00 – 8:00 pm Past President’s Dinner (Invite Only)
8:00 – 11:00 pm Casino Night
Wednesday, October 16
7:00 am Breakfast
8:00 - 11:00 am Keynote General Session (CE)
11:00 am – 2:00 pm Tradeshow and Lunch ** NEW TIMING
2:00 – 2:50 pm Concurrent Education Sessions (CE)
3:00 – 3:50 pm
4:00 – 5:00 pm
Concurrent Education Sessions (CE)
Closing Keynote General Session (CE)
6:00 – 11:00 pm Champagne Celebration - Dinner, Dancing, and Drinks
Thursday, October 17
7:00 – 8:30 am Breakfast
8:00 – 11:30 am State of the Association Address and Keynote (CE)
Who is the event designed for?
CONVO is designed for everyone in the agency, regardless of role. Our exclusive education sessions offer custom-built training you won’t find anywhere else, giving you and your team a competitive edge.
Agency Owners/Principals, Producers, Account Executives, CSRs, HR Professionals, Technology Gurus, and Marketing Managers - we mean everyone in the agency!
What (exactly) ?
What exactly can you get out of CONVO 2024? A lot. Starting with up to 12 hours of IL CE credit. We believe investing in yourself as an insurance professional is the best way to ensure career growth and expand your knowledge base. Depending on what you are looking for, either learning more about the industry’s top trends and inssues, or meeting your CE requirements, CONVO education sessions will meet your needs.
General Sessions
Overview and Outlook for the P&C Insurance Industry: Trends, Challenges and Opportunities
Wednesday, October 16 - 8:00 am
Dr. Bob Hartwig will present an overview of the Property and Casualty insurance industry, focusing on trends, challenges, and opportunities in Illinois. The presentation will cover topics such as financial performance, economic outlook, the impact of inflation, and the challenges posed by legal system abuse. This session also features an update from the DOI Director and Big I (National) Chairman-Elect.
Closing Keynote with Ben Zobrist, former Chicago Cub and 2016 World Series MVP
Wednesday, October 16, 4:00 pm
Drawing on his extensive experience in professional sports and life, Ben Zobrist discusses the importance of leadership and teamwork, sharing insights on how to foster a collaborative and supportive team environment and how to persevere in the face of adversity.
State of the Association Address & Keynote
Thursday, October 17, 8:00 am
Learn about trends and challenges facing the independent agency system during the State of the Association Address. Join us for a transformative journey through the rich history and future of the insurance industry. Hear inspiring insights from Pat Taphorn, incoming Big I Illinois President, as he shares the influence keynote speaker, Charlie Lydecker, President & CEO of Foundation Risk Partners, had on him and how it has impacted his leadership. Hear directly from Charlie on why he believes our industry is the greatest in the history of the world, and how we can all work together to build a strong foundation by perpetuating our future through sharing of knowledge, information, and our love of people.
Breakout Sessions
• E&O: Introduction to Homeowners
• Insurance Game of Games
• Hacking the Talent Crisis
• Developing and Retaining Talent
• Ownership Transition Planning
• Maximizing Your Carrier Relationships
• Navigating Challenges in Regulation: Government Interference in Your Agency and Association Resources to Help
• State of the Auto Market (AM Best Perspective)
• Anatomy of a Cyber Attack
• Sales Strategies for Cyber Insurance
What Else?
A lot. We pack as much as possible into just 48 hours, allowing every attendee to customize their schedule to fit their needs. Networking is the #1 reason people attend CONVO, and there are several opportunities.
Golf Outing
Join us for a round of golf complete with food and beverages, friendly competition, and a great opportunity to network with agents in advance of CONVO.
Tuesday, October 15 - 10:00 am Shotgun Start
Weaver Ridge Golf Club, Peoria, IL
Tradeshow
See for yourself the Midwest’s Largest industry tradeshow featuring over 120 vendors. Look for markets, VAs, technology and more to benefit your agency.
Networking Events
CONVO offers several opportunities to build your community of knowledgable professionals, make new friends and contacts, and find out what your old friends and peers have been up to!
Welcome Reception - Dutch Dine Arounds
Casino Night - Tradeshow - Champagne Celebration
Why should an agency owner network?
This is a great opportunity for you to meet with friends of the past on the agency, carrier & vendor side. Discuss the challenges you are facing, and make connections to solve those issues.
Why should agency employees network?
The social events are a great way to learn the resources available in the industry, did you know that carrier had that product line available? How about that vendor who can assist with that hard to place piece of business? It is a great way to learn more about the company partners your agency works with, and meet the people on the other end of the phone/email. You will also get to meet with peers and form a network of “your people” to call. The insurance industry is really all about the people, and CONVO is a great place to build those relationships.
Thank you to our Associate Members.
Diamond Level
Platinum Level
Progressive Surplus Line Association of Illinois
Silver Level
IMT Insurance
Gold Level
Arlington/Roe Blue Cross/Blue Shield of IL Pekin Insurance
Keystone Insurance Group, Inc.
SECURA Insurance
Bronze Level
A. J. Wayne & Associates
AAA, The Auto Club Group
AMERISAFE
AmTrust Insurance
Amwins
Auto-Owners Insurance Co.
Berkley Aspire
Berkley Management Protection
Berkley Small Business Solutions
Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
Bliss McKnight
BluSky Restoration Contractors, LLC
Boundless Rider
BriteCo Jewelry & Watch Insurance
Central Illinois Mutual Insurance Company
Chubb
Columbia Insurance 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
Imperial PFS
Independent Mutual Fire Insurance Company
Indiana Farmers Insurance
Insurance Program Managers Group (IPMG)
J M Wilson
Liberty Mutual/Safeco Insurance
Limit
Madison Mutual Insurance Company
Main Street America Insurance
Maximum Independent Brokerage, LLC
MEM
Mercury Insurance Group
Method Workers Comp
Midwest Insurance Company
Nationwide
NHRMA Mutual Workers’ Compensation
Pinnacle Minds, Inc.
Rhodian Group
Rockford Mutual Ins. Co.
ServiceMaster DSI
Society Insurance
SPRISKA - Specialty Risk of America
Steadily
Summit Insurance
Travelers
UFG Insurance
Universal Property & Casualty
Utica National Insurance Group
W. A. Schickedanz Agency, Inc./Interstate Risk Placement
West Bend Insurance Company
Western National Insurance
Westfield
Arlington/Roe Celebrates 60th Anniversary
Over 200 Arlington/Roe associates from across the country gathered in Indianapolis, IN, to celebrate the company’s 60th anniversary. Since Frances Roe founded the company in 1964, Arlington/Roe has experienced tremendous growth and achieved many significant milestones by following its core values of honesty, integrity, and trust.
The celebration began on Wednesday, August 14, with a casino night, followed by a full day of staff meetings and learning sessions on Thursday, August 15, and the day concluded with a gala at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. The celebration wrapped up on Friday, August 16, with breakfast at the Sheraton and an office open house for our associates visiting from outside of Indianapolis.
Arlington/Roe has been a long-time Associate member of Big I Illinois and sponsors and actively participates in educational & networking events throughout the state.
SECURA Insurance earns Platinum Well Workplace Award from Wellness Council of America
SECURA Insurance earned the Platinum Well Workplace Award from The Wellness Council of America (WELCOA). This is SECURA’s fourth time obtaining the Platinum Award, which is the highest award level recognizing the company as one of “America’s Healthiest Companies.”
By achieving the Well Workplace Award, SECURA has made a long-lasting commitment to the health and well-being of its associates.
“We are honored to achieve the Platinum Well Workplace Award from WELCOA once again,” said Sarah Krause, SECURA Vice President–Human Resources. “The health and well-being of our associates are top priorities, and receiving this award is recognition of our commitment to our associates’ health.”
The Wellness Council of America is one of North America’s most trusted voices on the topic of workplace wellness. WELCOA has an impeccable reputation for helping business and health professionals improve employee well-being and create healthier organizational cultures. The Well Workplace Awards initiative is driven by a rigorous set of criteria outlined in WELCOA’s seven benchmarks to a result-oriented Well Workplace.
SECURA Insurance, headquartered in Neenah, Wis., is a regional group of property-casualty insurance companies operating in 13 states.
2024 Best Practices Study Update – Best Practices Agencies Announced
The annual Best Practices Study (BPS) originated in 1993 as an initiative by the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (or Big I) to help its members build and maintain the value of their most important assets, their agencies. By studying the leading agencies and brokers in the country, the information provides member agents with meaningful performance benchmarks and business strategies that can be adopted or adapted for use in improving agency performance, thus enhancing agency value. Over 31 years later this work continues in partnership with Reagan Consulting providing important financial and operational benchmarks and the Study is recognized as one of the most thoughtful, effective and valuable resources made available to the industry. Go to independentagent.com for the latest study.
Congratulations to the Illinois member Best Practices Agencies:
The Horton Group
R.W. Troxell & Company
The Plexus Groupe LLC
Dansig, Inc.
Aleckson Insurance Agency
First Mid Insurance Group
Insurance World Agency Inc
How One Independent Broker is Shaping the Future of Insurance Professionals
By Ashley Gallegos
The insurance industry is on the brink of a significant transformation. With nearly 50% of the current workforce set to retire by 2036, the industry faces the challenge of filling hundreds of thousands of job vacancies. Tom Krug, CEO of J. Krug, is at the forefront of this shift, focusing on nurturing and recruiting top talent from Illinois State University’s Katie School of Insurance and Risk Management.
Recently appointed to the advisory board of the Katie School, Tom joins a group of corporate and professional leaders who meet several times a year to provide development insights and industry guidance. As a proud alumnus of the Katie School, Tom’s passion for coaching and mentoring young insurance professionals is evident. Under his leadership, J. Krug has hired 15 graduates and interns from the Katie School over the past few years.
Tom’s commitment to preparing future industry leaders is exemplified through J. Krug’s internship program. Offering paid internships to juniors and seniors, the program provides interns with hands-on experience in day-to-day agency operations and exposure to both the carrier and broker sides of the Property and Casualty industry. Interns rotate within the organization, assisting Account Managers and the Sales team, gaining a broader understanding of the Independent Agency channel. Additionally, they participate in formal training and mentorship with the leadership team.
When asked about the obstacles he faced when he first started in the industry, Tom said, “Like any typical young producer, getting over the age factor took some time, and at times it felt like things would never improve. After a few wins, much learning, and some increased confidence, the tides started to turn. Even to this day, the peaks and valleys of our business can be challenging at times, but remembering those successes really helps the confidence when it might be lacking.”
Tom is also excited about the specific initiatives and changes he aims to implement at the Katie School. “One key focus is integrating more technology-driven courses, such as InsurTech and data analytics, to ensure our students are well-versed in the latest industry innovations. Additionally, we’re placing a strong emphasis on experiential learning. Beyond traditional internships, we’re developing simulation-based learning experiences where students can tackle real-world challenges in a controlled environment. This hands-on approach will give them the practical skills and confidence they need to hit the ground running after graduation.”
As an active board member, Tom will contribute to the school’s curriculum and provide guidance on navigating the ever-changing job market. His goal is to raise awareness about the urgent need to attract more young talent to the insurance industry. Tom Krug and his leadership team are dedicated to recruiting and cultivating the next generation of insurance professionals over the next decade.
Ashley Gallegos is the Director of Marketing for J. Krug and can be reached at agallegos@jkrug.com.
ILLIN O I S
Thank You
for your many years of service
Board service is one of the toughest volunteer roles and these outgoing board members performed their responsibilities with dedication and tenacity. They have tirelessly given their time and resources to help make the association what it is today.
The Big I Illinois staff appreciates their contributions and wishes them nothing but the best in their future endeavors.
Renee Crissie
Young Agents Committee Chair
Acrisure Midwest Rosemeont, IL
Renee has completed her four-year term as Chair of the Big I Illinois Young Agents Committee. During her tenure, the committee experienced a generational shift as many valued members reached the age limit, and a vibrant group of young individuals joined. We appreciate Renee’s service to the Board of Directors and the Young Agents Committee.
Patrick Muldowney
At-Large Board Member
Alliant Insurance Services, Inc Chicago, IL
Patrick Muldowney joined the Board of Directors as an At-Large Director in 2013 and served in that role until 2016 when he joined the Executive Committee (EC). Patrick advanced through the chairs of the EC, culminating in his service as Chairman of the Board in 2020. Upon completion of his role on the EC, he served four one-year terms in an At-Large position.
ILLINOIS
Big I Dupage Illinois Golf Outing
July 23 - Wheaton, IL
Big I Illinois staff participated in the Big I Dupage Golf outing, sponsoring a hole and visiting with golfers. It’s always a great outing!
Tech Event: Anatomy of a Cyber Attack
July 31 - Oak Brook, IL
The Big I Illinois Technology Committee and Chicagoland group joined forces on July 31 in Oak Brook for the 2024 Tech Event: Anatomy of a Cyber Attack. Special thanks to our presenters and sponsors: CRDN of Chicago, RLS Consulting, Rhodian, Echelon, Arlington/Roe, and Agents Insurance Services (AIS).
For those that missed the event, check out the sessions at CONVO presented by Ryan Smith of RLS Consulting.
Cubs vs. Cardinals Baseball Outing
August 2 - Chicago, IL
The Big I Illinois Chicagoland group hosted an afternoon at Wrigley Field on August 2. Thanks to our sponsors: Summit, West Bend, and Arlington/Roe!
PERSONAL LINES SALES REPRESENTATIVE POSITION AVAILABLE
24. Come join our team! Madison Mutual has an opening for a licensed professional insurance agent in our Midwest Preferred Insurance Services office located in Collinsville, IL. The individual must currently hold an insurance producer’s license and have 3+ years of insurance agency experience. Visit the MMIC website Careers page for additional information: madisonmutual.com/careers. Also, explore our social media pages to see for yourself why MMIC is a great place to work!
Send your salary requirements and resume to: careers@madisonmutual.com
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
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 for contact information.
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, Buy-Sell 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
