Wisconsin Independent Agent | October 2023 Magazine

COVER STORY:

Introducing our New 2023-2024 Board Members

8-10 PAGES:

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT.........................................7

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS......................................................14

Don't Rock the Boat by Rep. Barbara Dittrich

EMERGING LEADERS.............................................................18

IIAW Emerging Leaders Recognized for Outstanding Community Service

PERSONAL LINES.....................................................................20

The Invisible But Potentially Catastrophic Homeowners Exclusion That's Not An Exclusion

COMMERCIAL LINES.............................................................20-21

How Reinsurance Rates Are Contributing to the Hard Market

E&O.................................................................................................22

Drive Sales and Reduce Your E&O Risk By Using Coverage Checklists

MARKETING...............................................................................24

The Power of Blogging: Why Every Independent Insurance Agency Needs One

TECHNOLOGY............................................................................26-27

Artificial Intelligence and the Future of the Independent Insurance Agent

HUMAN RESOURCES..............................................................28-29

The Remote Revolution: Empowering Mothers of Small Children in Independent Insurance Agencies

COMMENTARY FROM COUNSEL......................................30

Supreme Court May Give Businesses Some Relief From ADA Title III "Testers"

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS.......................................................32-33

ADVERTISERS INDEX

wisconsin INDEPENDENT AGENT

INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS OF WISCONSIN

725 John Nolen Drive Madison, Wisconsin 53713

Phone: (608) 256-4429

Fax: (608) 256-0170 www.iiaw.com

2023-2024 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President:

Michael Ansay | Ansay & Associates

President-Elect:

Joanne Lukas Szymaszek | Johnson Insurance Services, LLC

Secretary-Treasurer:

Dan Lau | Robertson Ryan & Associates

Chairman of the Board:

Nick Arnoldy | Marshfield Insurance Agency, Inc.

State National Director:

Steve Leitch | Leitch Insurance

2023-2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Janel Bazan | Avid Risk Solutions/Assured Partners

Beth DeLaForest | Aspire Insurance Group, Inc.

Mike Harrison | R&R Insurance Services, Inc.

Jason Knockel | Kunkel & Associates, Inc.

Aaron Marsh | Marsh Insurance Services, Inc.

Andrea Nelson | Unisource Insurance Associates, LLC

Brad Reitzner | M3 Insurance Solutions

Justin Staebler | Risk Strategies Company

IIAW Staff

Matt Banaszynski | Chief Executive Officer 608.256.4429 • matt@iiaw.com

Mallory Cornell | Vice President 608.210.2975 • mallory@iiaw.com

Kim Kramp | Accounting Supervisor 608.210.2976 • kim@iiaw.com

Trisha Ours | Director of Insurance Services 608.210.2973 • trisha@iiaw.com

Evan Leitch | Agency Solutions Advisor 608.210.2971 • evan@iiaw.com

Kaylyn Staudt | Marketing and Communications Director 608.210.2977 • kaylyn@iiaw.com

Jeff Thiel | Director of Agency Success 608.256.4429 • jeff@iiaw.com

Andrea Michelz | Education & Membership Engagement Coordinator 608.210.2972 • andrea@iiaw.com

Diana Banaszynski | Events Coordinator and HR Business Partner 608.256.4429 • diana@iiaw.com

Ali Smeester | Accounting Specialist 608.256.4429 • ali@iiaw.com

Freeman Zhang | Data Analytics Intern 608.256.4429 • freeman@iiaw.com

Agents

Wisconsin (IIAW) and

by IIAW 725 John Nolen Drive, Madison WI 53713. Phone: 608.256.4429. IIAW does not necessarily endorse any of the companies advertising in publication or the views of the writers. IIAW reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to reject advertising that does not meet IIAW qualifications or which may detract from its business, professional or ethical standards. © 2023 For information on advertising, contact Kaylyn Staudt, 608.210.2977 or kaylyn@iiaw.com.

nice makes you smile.

At Western National Insurance, nice is what’s guided us for over 100 years. And we’re just getting started.

Western National Insurance. The power of nice.

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Dear Members of the Independent Insurance Agents of Wisconsin,

I am honored to serve as the President of the IIAW for the year 2024. I look forward to leading the IIAW in what promises to be a transformational year, as the organization celebrates its 125th anniversary. This impressive milestone speaks to the organization’s commitment and passion for the insurance industry, where it has achieved widespread recognition and respect.

Looking forward to 2024, the future of our industry is closely connected with technology and our ability to embrace change. That’s why attracting new talent to our field is paramount to continued growth and success.

Indeed, we must acknowledge a significant challenge within our industry - the imminent retirement of many experienced professionals. This demographic shift will undoubtedly lead to a knowledge gap and a pressing need for fresh talent to step in, embrace emerging technologies like AI, and drive industry evolution.

In this regard, I am thrilled to announce a groundbreaking initiative between the IIAW and Marquette University. Together, we are launching a program designed to cultivate the insurance leaders of tomorrow. This program, centered on technology, sales, and risk management, will offer Marquette students invaluable exposure to our industry.

It is designed as a flexible module program that can be seamlessly integrated into their coursework.

I couldn’t conclude without mentioning the impact Artificial Intelligence (AI) promises to have in our work and in our lives. While it promises to be a valuable tool within our organizations, it will never replace the irreplaceable - the expertise and dedication of our people. It will, however, empower us to enhance workflows and provide even more value to clients. I don’t view AI as anything to fear. Rather, I look forward to embracing its ability to automate tasks so we have more time to do what we do best – help people.

Together, as members of the IIAW, we are poised to navigate this transformative era with purpose and optimism. I look forward to an inspiring year ahead.

And remember, it’s always a great day to sell insurance.

Sincerely,

Mike Ansay Chairman & CEO, Ansay & Associates President, Independent Insurance Agents of Wisconsin (IIAW)

AROUND THE BOARD ROOM

MEET THE IIAW'S NEWEST BOARD MEMBERS

What do you hope to accomplish while on the IIAW Board of Directors?

Beth DeLaForest President, Aspire Insurance Group, Inc.

Tell Us a Little About You:

My name is Beth DeLaForest, I am President of Aspire Insurance Group, based out of Hudson, WI.

My husband, Adam, is a chiropractor by trade but has been progressively moving more into the agency over the last 3 years, he acts as our CFO. Adam and I have been married for 20 years and have 2 kids, Chloe (16) and Evan (15).

As a family we enjoy boating, traveling, spending time with friends and family and being outside as much as we can. Chloe shows in hunters (horse jumping) and Evan loves Golf and Park Scootering. Oh, and we all love dogs, we have two – Phoebe and Abe.

I personally love yoga, lifting weights, reading, morning walks and wine.

I started in the insurance industry in 2001 as a receptionist at a State Farm Agency at the age of 20. It took me 10 years there to muster up the courage to leap into the independent side of insurance – in 2010 I started as an agent at an independent agency in the Twin Cities metro (MN) area, built a book of business and learned the ropes (mainly commercial) until 2014 when I purchased the book of business I built and started Aspire Insurance Group. Aspire has been built on word-of-mouth marketing until 2020 when we did our first acquisition and expanded to a second location in MN (Gilbert). Currently, we are a team of 9 and growing.

I am coming in as a blank slate, excited to learn and be hands and feet. I am not afraid of getting in the trenches or to learn something new. Just excited to serve, this industry has been so good to me, and I want to give back.

What unique perspective or skillset do you bring to the IIAW Board of Directors that you will be valuable in achieving the Association's goals?

I think one of the gifts my journey has brought is that I have sat in every seat on the agency side. Receptionist, CSR, Agent, Manager…so I have a unique ability to foresee and empathize with what these roles will navigate. I believe that being a woman in the industry will bring some diversity of thought.

I have a passion for culture, modern day leadership, innovation within our agencies, and I approach growth and development both personally and professionally like it’s a sport.

What do you see as the biggest challenge and opportunity facing the IA channel currently or in the future?

Big picture thinking, I believe that the talent gap in the industry is a big concern now and over the next 10ish years. This is also an opportunity to bring in fresh talent in new ways. I see the face of insurance changing a lot in the upcoming years. I truly believe in every challenge there is an opportunity.

Any life advice or a favorite quote?

Comparison is the thief of joy!

You can’t drive forward looking in the rear-view mirror!

A book you recommend people read?

Your Oxygen Mask First by Kevin Lawrence

Non-Insurance Prediction for 2023-2024?

That society will continue to redefine what success is to them…rather than big homes and expensive cars it will be more freedom.

AROUND THE BOARD ROOM

MEET THE IIAW'S NEWEST BOARD MEMBERS

Jason Knockel CEO, Kunkel & Associates, Inc.

Tell Us a Little About You:

I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration and a minor in Economics from Clarke University in Dubuque, Iowa. I enjoy spending time with my wife, 4 children and granddaughters and working in the outdoors.

Kunkel & Associates, Inc. is a commercial Insurance Agency based out of Dubuque, IA with offices in Madison, WI and Overland Park, KS that specializes in property & casualty, employee benefits, claims management and safety services.

I started my career in banking and retirement prior to finding my way to insurance where I’ve spent the last 25 years. I continue to gain knowledge within the insurance industry and have my Accredited Advisors in Insurance (AAI), Certified Risk Management (CRM) and Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designations. I’m also a member of MarshBerry’s Peer Exchange Network.

What do you hope to accomplish while on the IIAW Board of Directors?

I’m looking forward to networking with my peers and continuing to learn how I can help the independent agent model.

I strongly believe in the independent agent model and am excited to help make it better.

What unique perspective or skillset do you bring to the IIAW Board of Directors that you will be valuable in achieving the Association's goals?

I bring an open mind and a wide perspective on the different roles within an insurance agency that will help align both the independent agent and the Association's goals.

What do you see as the biggest challenge and opportunity facing the IA channel currently or in the future?

Putting more emphasis on introducing insurance to colleges in Wisconsin and the midwest. I see this as a challenge and opportunity in our current job market. The ability to have these students learn more about Insurance in college will help independent agents with recruiting and training.

Any life advice or a favorite quote?

Whenever I’m about to do something, I think “Would and idiot do that?” and if they would, I do not do that thing. -Dwight Schrute

A book you recommend people read?

Executive Toughness by Dr. Jason Selk

Non-Insurance Prediction for 2023-2024?

The Los Angeles Dodgers will win the World Series!

AROUND THE BOARD ROOM

MEET THE IIAW'S NEWEST BOARD MEMBERS

Justin Staebler Personal Lines/Life Leader, Risk Strategies

Tell Us a Little About You:

I am married for the past 17 years to my wife, Annie and we have 4 very active kids who are involved in a variety of different sports (soccer, rugby, football, basketball, track and golf). I enjoy hunting, golfing and just being active with my family.

I have been with Johnson Insurance, now Risk Strategies, for a little over 7 years leading the personal lines and Life insurance team. Before I joined the Johnson team, I was an independent contributor at a different agency selling all lines of insurance business.

I attended University of Wisconsin Madison, where I was part of the wrestling team and also worked when I was out of season. After college, I spent some time in CO and IL working for Enterprise Rent-A-Car before making the switch to insurance.

What do you hope to accomplish while on the IIAW Board of Directors?

I hope to advance the goals of the board and continue to learn about this ever changing industry to better be able to serve my team & our clients.

What unique perspective or skillset do you bring to the IIAW Board of Directors that you will be valuable in achieving the Association's goals?

I am a big picture thinker & always strive to think outside the box to help our industry to look at things a little differently. I love to challenge the status quo.

What do you see as the biggest challenge and opportunity facing the IA channel currently or in the future?

The current market we are facing. With all of the changes companies are making, it is our biggest challenge right now, but also our biggest opportunity. We have been in a market for many years where everyone is talking about price and focused on how much they are paying for insurance. We have an opportunity now to educate the consumer about the value of insurance in protecting their most valuable assets (family, home, business, etc.).

Any life advice or a favorite quote?

“Those who dare to fail miserably can achieve greatly.” ~ John F. Kennedy.

We are all going to make mistakes, move forward and learn from that mistake. Every day we are learning or we are dying, what one are you going to do today?

A book you recommend people read?

The One Thing by Keller and Papasan, The Energy Bus by Gordon

Non-Insurance Prediction for 2023-2024?

Packers will have a winning record. It is going to be cold, and we will have more snow than normal this year.

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EVENT SCHEDULE

LAMBEAU FIELD, GREEN BAY

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15TH

10:30AM-12:30PM

Champions Club Room

AGENCY APPRECIATION LUNCHEON

Aaron Popkey, Green Bay Packers

*This event is open to agency personnel and those receiving a special invite.*

Limited space available on a firstcome, first-serve basis.

1PM-4PM

Legends Club Room

4:30PM-9PM

Johnsonville Tailgate Village

E&O RISK MANAGEMENT (ETHICS)

Mallory Cornell, IIAW Vice President

MEET GREEN BAY PACKERS HEAD COACH

THURSDAY, MAY 16TH

8AM-9AM

Pre-Function Area

9AM-9:45AM

Legends Club Room

CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST

IIAW PAST PRESIDENTS’ PANEL

Mary Hosmer, Paul Leitch, Darrel Zaleski and Marc Petersen

10AM-11:15AM Legends Club Room RISK MANAGEMENT PANEL

Local Green Bay Leaders of Risk and Crisis Management

11:30AM-12:30PM

Legends Club Room

12PM-1:30PM

Pre-Function Area

12:30PM-3:30PM

North Balcony and Pre-Function Area

5PM-6PM

Atrium Floor

6PM-9PM

CEO PANEL

To Be Announced

GOURMET LUNCH

Celebrate the heart of our industry at the exclusive Agency Appreciation Luncheon, a gathering dedicated to recognizing our valued agency personnel and esteemed invitees. Hear how the Packers prepare for the 2025 Draft, their marketing strategy and how they respond to negative events from Green Bay Packers Director of Public Affairs, Aaron Popkey. We’ll also feature a fast-paced CEO Q&A.

Earn 3 Ethics CE credits during Mallory’s Less Risk. More Reward. E&O Risk Management course. This course will be full of storytelling, statistics and E&O risk mitigation tips and it is premium credit approved by Swiss Re.

Gear up for an exciting tailgate party, featuring an exclusive Meet and Greet with Packers Head Coach, Matt LaFleur, an exhilarating cornhole tournament, tailgate games and dinner!

Stop by the registration desk outside of the Legends Club Room to pick up breakfast before the panels begin.

We’ll engage in insightful discussions with our four esteemed former presidents of the IIAW, delving into their experiences and perspectives on the industry’s evolution.

Join us as we listen to local leaders in risk management and crisis management and how they mitigate their exposures. Hear how professionals plan for Packer game day events and other potential hazards that face the city and events in Green Bay.

Gain valuable insights into the insurance industry’s future trajectory from top CEOs in our CEO Panel, as they discuss emerging trends, challenges and innovative strategies shaping the landscape.

Join us for a gourmet lunch prior to our Exhibitor Showcase.

EXHIBITOR SHOWCASE Network and connect during our Exhibitor Showcase on the North Balcony, overlooking the Lambeau Field Atrium. Agency attendees can win great prizes during Blackout Bingo and exhibitor Super Door Prize giveaways.

COCKTAIL RECEPTION HONORING

IIAW PAST PRESIDENTS

Open to Everyone

EVENING CELEBRATION

Atrium Floor Charles Woodson, Former NFL Defensive MVP, Heisman Trophy Winner and ESPN Analyst

FRIDAY, MAY 17TH

HALL

Join us for a cocktail hour preceding the evening’s celebration as we set the stage for a spectacular night with a photo opportunity overlooking Lambeau Field.

Prepare for an unforgettable evening of celebration and inspiration, as we commence with an esteemed awards ceremony and a presentation from Charles Symington, IIABA CEO. We’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and journey through the rich history of the IIAW over the last 125 years. Charles Woodson will lead a keynote presentation that promises to leave a lasting impact. Cap off the night with an exclusive Meet & Greet session, offering the chance to connect with Woodson up close and personal.

Enjoy your Guided Lambeau Field Stadium Tours and Hall of Fame Tours (included w/ registration) during this time!

Matt LaFleur, Packers Head Coach

DON'T ROCK THE BOAT

A number of years ago, my husband and I found ourselves in need of a new pontoon boat. Our old ride had upholstery in terrible shape, a ripped canopy, and a beleaguered motor that rendered pretty useless for enjoying Lake Country in the warm weather months in Wisconsin. A dear friend found us an incredible deal on a used boat, lift, and trailer. Problem solved, right? Well, somewhat, but not completely. It turned out that the replacement watercraft was a deck boat. It was a deck boat rather than a pontoon boat. If you’ve ever ridden on those two types of boats, you know that the deck boat is much more “tippy” than the stability of a pontoon boat. One of our first rides out, that instability caused a spill on deck, rendering a passenger with some serious abrasions. It’s still nice to have a boat, but the instability has made me resolved to never own another deck boat again.

My name is Representative Barbara Dittrich. I am the new chair of the Assembly Committee on Insurance. Why do I tell such a story? Because I know that our state’s insurance industry can end up being much like that tippy deck boat. Having served in the investment industry for 14 years, I know that stability is key. While I sold mostly life insurance, annuities, and a couple of health insurance plans as portions of individuals overall portfolios, I still understand that keeping Wisconsin’s markets on solid ground is critical to the industry as well as consumers.

These are perilous times for the insurance industry overall. The weather certainly hasn’t been our friend. Litigiousness can be a persistent challenge. The public’s worldviews and political winds can certainly also add to creating a “tippy boat.”

With Wisconsin’s longstanding reputation for excellent insurance markets, my goal in this new leadership role is to continue preservation of stability. I am all ears when it comes to listening to stakeholders, insurance companies, agents, and consumers. Assessing the national landscape has to be part of that task as well. I think my overall understanding of the industry lends itself to working with Wisconsinites to keep us from unnecessarily “taking on water,” if you will. Additionally, I have found the OCI to be one of the most understanding and cooperative departments to deal with in our current administration. Working together towards that common goal will be critical in preserving the state’s insurance markets.

I am happy to hear from you any time. My door is always open, and you will frequently find me out in my district. Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself and share your thoughts when you see me out and about in our great state.

> Rep. Barbara Dittrich Chair of Assembly Committee on Insurance

HOW TO SUCCEED IN A HARD MARKET

Join us for an afternoon of learning, hosted by the IIAW Emerging Leaders. Eric Kuhen and Aaron Forbes from MarshBerry will guide us through a series of sessions to help improve your strategies and skills in a hard market. You’ll learn how to better communicate your value in a hard market, improve your strategy for growing organically, boost your internal culture and more! Drinks and apps will follow the presentation from 5 to 6:30 p.m. This event is open to everyone.

WHEN: 1 P.M. TO 5 P.M. (HAPPY HOUR TO FOLLOW)

NOVEMBER 2, 2023

WHERE: PARK HOTELTOP OF THE PARK ROOM (8TH FLOOR) 22 S CARROLL ST. MADISON, WI 53703

COST: $25 FOR IIAW MEMBERS ($149 NON-MEMBERS)

FEATURED SESSIONS:

HOW TO COMMUNICATE YOUR VALUE IN A HARD MARKET

Eric Kuhen, MarshBerry, will share the language and strategy you need to communicate and grow, how to understand the importance of an association or network partner to achieve growth goals and create a strategy and succession plan for your firm to move forward in the current market.

STRATEGY FOR GROWING ORGANICALLY

This session discusses the keys to creating a vision and setting goals that are challenging but attainable, how to develop strategies for objective achievement and how innovation & competitive differentiation are the keys to profitable development.

REGISTER NOW: IIAW.COM/EVENT/MARSHBERRY

KEYS TO ASSESSING YOUR SALES CULTURE

You’ll understand how a sales culture assessment can provide perspective on the inner workings of your agency, the four focal points of sales culture assessment and how to use the results to drive change. Attendees will have access to a complimentary Sales Culture assessment for their agency.

SOLIDIFYING YOUR CARRIER PARTNERSHIPS

Are you working with the right carriers? Do you have the right partnerships in place? These relationships can help you fuel growth. During this session, MarshBerry helps you generate ideas on building a carrier strategy that can advance your growth.

JOIN THE IIAW’S

EMERGING LEADERS

Who We Are

The IIAW Emerging Leaders is a statewide network of insurance professionals striving for professional growth through education, leadership development, legislative involvement and insurance career perpetuation. The group hosts a variety of in-person and virtual events throughout the year to allow members to learn, network and grow professionally.

The IIAW Emerging Leaders is committed to offering best-in-class professional development and networking opportunities for insurance professionals across the state.

Who Should Join

What We Do

We create experiences to help members build their careers and integrate best practices.

We develop meaningful relationships between agents, carrier representatives and association members.

We provide unique professional development opportunities (industry simulations, personal development, speakers, webinars, etc.).

We engage future industry decision-makers in events and volunteer roles. Join

Young insurance professionals who are looking to enhance their career and build relationships within the industry.

To join scan the QR code, visit iiaw.com/emergingleadersgroup or email evan@iiaw.com.

THE INVISIBLE BUT POTENTIALLY CATASTROPHIC HOMEOWNERS EXCLUSION THAT'S NOT AN EXCLUSION

For most Americans, by far their most valuable asset is their home. In order to protect that asset from loss, most consumers insure the replacement cost of their homes with a homeowners policy. Most homeowners policies cover the dwelling “where ‘you’ reside,” which is interpreted by some to mean that, unless “you” reside there at the time of loss, there may be no coverage.

According to some interpretations and courts, if ‘you’ no longer reside in the dwelling, coverage on that structure immediately terminates. If you never resided in the dwelling, coverage may never have attached. This gives rise to a number of circumstances that, if this school of thought is correct, may lead to a catastrophic coverage gap for such homeowners. This is evidenced by both court decisions and real life insurance claim denials.

For example, an elderly widow was admitted to a convalescence home to recuperate from some health problems in order to be able to return home and to selfsufficiency. Her home remained her legal address and her nonresident children cared for the home, though no one lived there during her presumably temporary stay at the health care facility. After a few months, her home was totally destroyed by fire. The insurance company denied the claim on the basis that she did not reside there at the time of loss.

As another example, a home was damaged by Hurricane Gustav. The homeowners had temporarily vacated the premises during remodeling though they visited the premises daily. The insurer denied the claim because the insureds were not residing there at the time of loss.

In one other example, the purchaser of a home renovated it before moving in. During the renovations, the house suffered a six-figure fire loss. The insurance company denied the claim because the insured had never resided in the house prior to the loss.

Each of these is a real-life claim where losses to homes were denied based on a lack of residency, to the complete surprise to the insured and the agent. There is no specific exclusion for damage to a home in most homeowners policies due to a lack of residency, yet there have been court cases where such denials were upheld.

A nonresidency situation can arise unexpectedly due to illness or death, military deployment, foreclosures, relocations, etc. Even when it arises due to a routine sale, temporary rental, occupancy by a family member, divorce or separation, or transfer of ownership to a trust, given that there is no clear exclusion for most losses in most homeowners policies, most agents and virtually all insureds presume there is no coverage problem.

If you sell or underwrite homeowners insurance, I can guarantee you that you are insuring homes that right now, based on this interpretation, have no coverage on the dwelling. So, what can you do about it?

I first wrote about this almost 20 years ago but the problem still exists. ISO has offered something of a workaround and at least one carrier resolved the issue completely, but many have not and courts in some jurisdictions continue to uphold claim denials. To review the original white paper on this subject, plus updates since that time, I strongly encourage you to avail yourself to this free resource at bit.ly/45ewtah.

Copyright 2016-2023 by InsuranceCommentary.com. Reprinted with permission. > Bill Wilson, CPCU, ARM, AIM, AAM insurancecommentary.com

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HOW REINSURANCE RATES ARE CONTRIBUTING TO THE HARD MARKET

The soft reinsurance market conditions that had prevailed for close to 15 years came to an end in 2020. Since then, 40-year high inflation rates that have been exacerbated by the war in Ukraine, a challenging 2022 storm season, concerns over climate change, and investor pressures to improve performance are all factors that have been impacting reinsurance rates and capacity offerings, according to “Aon’s Reinsurance Aggregate (ARA)— Results for the Year to December 31, 2022” report.

These headwinds, coupled with a complex reinsurance renewal period this year in which reinsurers followed strict underwriting guidelines and tightened treaty terms and conditions with new exclusions, combined to drive insurance prices up during the first quarter of 2023, according to the report.

Common exclusions added by reinsurers include communicable diseases and cyber. New this year was an updated cyber war exclusion covering attacks that could cripple a nation’s ability to function. While this has raised some concerns within the industry, it may offer more benefits for policyholders.

Overall, the lines of business most significantly impacted by increasing reinsurance rates include catastrophe-prone property risks and specialty lines of business.

“Reinsurers are focused on improving the bottom-line results, since legal system abuse, inflation and climate change have really taken a toll on industry results over the past five to six years,” says Kerri Hamm, executive vice president, head of business development, Munich Re U.S. “Reinsurers are focused on getting high-quality quantitative and qualitative information, which they used to deepen their analyses of significant loss exposures.”

Further, after years of low-interest rate returns on their fixed-income portfolio along with poor underwriting margins, reinsurers are looking to reset the market by putting upward pressure on pricing and regaining some capital, which declined by approximately 15% in 2022, according to Beinsure.

While insurers were able to purchase the reinsurance protection they needed during the January renewal period, it was at significantly higher rates and retentions. In the commercial property segment, property rates rose by 20% in the first quarter due to large increases in reinsurance costs, according to CIAB—while some reinsurers partially or completely withdrew from the property & catastrophe segment in an effort to limit losses.

Specialty lines closely connected to war, including marine and aviation, also saw rate increases linked to increasing reinsurance costs.

More recently, commercial property reinsurance rates rose between 30% and 50% for accounts with catastrophe losses at June 1 and July 1 reinsurance renewals, according to a report from Gallagher Re. While significant, such increases were less than those experienced earlier in the year as midyear property catastrophe capacity improved with top layers on some oversubscribed U.S. national programs, according to an Aon report.

Looking ahead, changes in terms could be even more important than higher pricing, with the property reinsurance market in true hard market territory for the first time in over two decades, according to analysts at JMP Securities LLC. As claims inflation is expected to continue through 2023, reinsurers are expected to continue to push further price increases and higher limits in this line.

However, “there are certainly opportunities

for reinsurers to expand their portfolios in ways that are responsible and healthy, especially as insurers desire not just highquality capacity, but also market insights and risk guidance that knowledge-based reinsurers can bring to the table,” Hamm says.

The hard market requires that risks are explained and negotiated in every detail, both in numbers and in words. Meanwhile, insurers and reinsurers are looking for more information and transparency before assuming any risk.

As agents look to provide coverage for clients in this atmosphere, “my advice is for agents to read the forms, learn the coverage, and get into the details,” Hamm says. “I also recommend specializing where possible: Join a trade association and really get into the details of the businesses that you are insuring and get to know the deeper business needs of your clients.”

This article was originally featured on iamagazine.com in September 2023.

> Olivia Overman IA Content Editor

DRIVE SALES AND REDUCE YOUR E&O RISK BY USING COVERAGE CHECKLISTS

In the ever-evolving world of an insurance agent, two critical objectives consistently remain at the forefront: driving sales growth and mitigating the risk of Errors and Omissions (E&O) claims. Achieving this delicate balance can be a complex task, but there exists a remarkably effective tool that can help you accomplish both objectives simultaneously — the coverage checklist. By providing a structured approach to insurance consultations, these checklists not only remind agents of all the different optional coverages and endorsements to discuss, but also significantly reduce the risk of E&O situation by avoiding the “failure to offer coverage” claim. Let’s explore how this simple yet powerful tool can boost insurance sales, bolster client satisfaction, and mitigate E&O claims.

First, what’s the difference between a coverage checklist and a data-intake or quote sheet? A coverage checklist is a list of coverages and coverage options a client can choose from where a data-intake sheet is gathering the information about the risk of being quoted. While it is important to know all the information you need to create a quote, a quote sheet doesn’t necessarily reduce the risk of an E&O claim or prevent future back and forth when it comes to “Does the client need ‘this’ coverage?” This is one of the many benefits of using coverage checklists.

A coverage checklist also can help an insurance agent upsell/cross-sell coverage by reminding them to ask the client if they are interested or need additional coverage not included in the base policy. This can increase sales and provide a better experience for the client by having their exposures addressed in an efficient conversation. If the client is not interested in a certain type of coverage that an agent recommends based on their situation, a coverage checklist should provide the option for the client (during in-person meetings) or agent (for phone meetings) to check a “rejected coverage” box. The client should also have an opportunity to request a quote for any coverage they do not have during the time they review the coverage checklist and sign-off that they reviewed the document. Lastly, a good coverage

checklist should include language stating that the client is welcome to contact the agent in the future if they would like to discuss coverage options at a later date. While most applications have a client signature and many of the different coverage options, it may not have everything that a coverage checklist has. It also does act as another piece of documentation in conjunction with the application to show the client has multiple opportunities to request certain coverage if an unfortunate situation arises.

Coverage checklists provide a better experience, a better risk assessment and better documentation for the coverage assessment process. This documentation can be valuable in the event of a dispute or E&O claim as it provides a clear record of the coverage options discussed and which were agreed upon. Not only that, but it also provides agents with a structured approach for each client, reducing the risk of overlooking important details or failing to offer essential coverage options. It gives the agent an opportunity to educate customers about coverage choices that might otherwise seem confusing in written policy form.

The IIAW proudly offers our members sample checklists for personal, commercial, farm/ranch and life & health insurance! You can download them at bit.ly/EORiskManagement or contact me (evan@iiaw.com) and I can email them to you. These samples are meant to be updated and customized for each agency’s needs. If you have existing checklists, you may review our sample checklists to make any updates or changes to what you’re currently using. If you already have quote sheets or data gathering forms, contact the IIAW and we can help find a way to combine the quote sheet and coverage checklist into one document. The IIAW is here to help our members.

> Evan Leitch, Agency Solutions Advisor, IIAW

THE BEST REMEDY FOR WORKERS’ COMPENSATION WEST BEND

West Bend Mutual Insurance 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 childcare, 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.

THE POWER OF BLOGGING: WHY EVERY INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENCY NEEDS ONE

In today's digital age, the competition for customers' attention in the insurance industry is fiercer than ever. Independent insurance agencies face the challenge of standing out in a crowded market and one effective way to do that is by maintaining a blog. A well-crafted blog can be a powerful tool for an independent insurance agency, helping to establish credibility, build trust and drive growth.

Showcase Expertise: Blogging allows your agency to demonstrate your expertise in the insurance field. By consistently producing high-quality, informative content, you can position your agency as a trusted source of information. Whether you're explaining complex insurance policies or offering tips on how to save money on premiums, your blog can establish your agency as a knowledgeable authority in the industry.

Build Trust and Credibility: Customers want to work with insurance agencies they can trust. A blog can help you build credibility by showcasing your commitment to educating and assisting your clients. When potential clients find valuable information on your blog, they are more likely to trust your agency to provide them with the insurance solutions they need.

Boost SEO and Website Traffic: Search engine optimization (SEO) is critical for online visibility. Blogging regularly with relevant keywords can improve your website's search engine rankings, making it easier for potential clients to find you. As your blog ranks higher in search results, your website traffic will increase, leading to more potential leads.

Connect with Your Audience: Blogs offer a unique opportunity to connect with your audience on a personal level. You can address common questions, concerns and misconceptions in your industry, showing that you understand your clients' needs. Engage with your readers by encouraging comments and feedback, fostering a sense of community and trust.

Highlight Specializations: Insurance is a broad field with numerous specialties. Use your blog to highlight your agency's expertise in specific areas, such as auto insurance, home insurance, or commercial insurance. By demonstrating your in-depth knowledge, you can attract clients seeking specialized coverage.

Educate and Inform: Insurance can be complex and overwhelming for many clients. A blog allows you to break down complex topics into easily digestible pieces, empowering your audience with knowledge. Informed clients are more likely to make informed decisions and choose your agency for their insurance needs.

Generate Leads and Conversions: Every blog post can be an opportunity to convert readers into leads. By including calls-to-action (CTAs) in your blog posts, such as inviting readers to request a quote or subscribe to your newsletter, you can turn blog visitors into potential clients.

Competitive Advantage: By consistently producing valuable content on your blog, you can gain a competitive advantage in your market, attracting clients who appreciate your commitment to providing information and assistance.

A blog is a powerful tool that should not be overlooked by independent insurance agencies. It's a cost-effective way to establish authority, build trust and connect with your target audience. By consistently providing valuable and informative content, your agency can differentiate itself in a crowded marketplace and ultimately drive growth. So, if you haven't already, start your agency's blog today and unlock the full potential of this valuable marketing tool.

> Kaylyn Staudt Marketing & Communications Director, IIAW

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND THE FUTURE OF THE INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENT

What would you say is the most prominent theme throughout human history? Most people argue that conflict or culture defines humanity. Still, when we examine the entirety of human existence, we see one central point that outshines the rest: Advancement.

Each age of humanity has been defined by an innovation that changed the course of history forever. Whether it be the wheel, the invention of steel, or the internet, humans seem determined never to settle for their current reality and are always rushing towards that next defining moment.

We believe that the next defining moment is already here, and it has come in the form of artificial intelligence (AI). The floodgates are open, and in as little as five years from now AI will likely have significantly altered how we live and work. So what does this mean for insurance agents? Well, if history has taught us anything it is that those who properly implement innovative technologies are rewarded, and those that don’t either fade into obscurity or serve as a cautionary tale for why you shouldn’t blindly charge forward into uncharted territory.

In this article, we explore how the emergence of AI could impact independent insurance agents and make the case for why agents should work to carefully implement this technology into their agencies’ operations.

First Things First

The burning question that professionals of all stripes are asking themselves is “Can AI do my job better than I can and will it make my role obsolete?”. Insurance agents are not immune to this line of thinking, but thankfully it is unreasonable to assume that machines will eliminate the need for human agents.

Most consumers are not experts on the different types of coverages available and defer to the expertise of an insurance agent when navigating the buying process. While AI tools such as ChatGPT do a great job scouring the internet and organizing information to answer a question, purchasing insurance requires trust, and consumers trust that their agent is qualified and capable of advising them on their potential risks and securing the right coverage for their needs. That level of trust is not easily transferable to an artificial machine (do you prefer navigating an automated customer service menu or speaking with a live person?), especially considering the nuance required to properly advise and service a client. As such, it is highly unlikely that consumers would ever prefer their risk profile to be assessed and managed by a programmable machine instead of a real person.

No one knows what the future holds, but we firmly believe that no matter how sophisticated AI becomes, it can never replicate the interpersonal value and expertise provided by agents.

On the Bright Side

With that being said, AI can potentially eliminate the need for agents to perform repetitive and mundane tasks and empower them to focus on where they provide the most value: Advising and servicing their clients. How will it do this? Let’s take a look:

Customer Service

The use of AI chatbots to answer basic customer questions is an increasingly popular feature that more and more companies are utilizing. These chatbots help companies stay connected to consumers and are especially useful outside normal business hours.

For example, imagine a customer needing information about your agency’s renewal process after you’ve locked up shop for the day and your customer service team has gone home. Featuring an AI chatbot on your website that is capable of answering this customer’s questions will add value to your customer and in turn strengthen their loyalty to your agency. Even today, using AI to enhance your level of customer service can reduce service costs by up to 30%, according to Entrepreneur. Imagine what that number will be 10 years from now as AI continues to advance. Additionally, companies such as synthesia allow users to create AI videos that could potentially be used for employee training or continuing education purposes.

It is important to note that AI chatbots are best used in tandem with your customer support team and should primarily be utilized when your team is unavailable (holidays, weekends, non-business hours, etc.) or as a fast reference for your team members when issues arise outside of their circle of competence. In our opinion, having a live person responding to customer inquiries is the preferred method (especially since being an insurance agent is a service-driven role), but when a live person is not available an AI chatbot can provide an acceptable level of support in the interim and is certainly better than no support. Remember, AI should not replace your customer service staff but instead work in tandem with them to increase the amount of value your agency can provide to your customers.

Underwriting

AI and machine learning (ML) technologies are already transforming the underwriting process by improving data collection and risk assessment methods. For example, instead of relying on potentially inaccurate data provided by customers on an application, insurance companies are beginning to utilize technology that can automatically gather data through many different sources and more accurately discern the level of risk present in each policy. According to management consultancy McKinsey and Company, by 2030 underwriting processes will be almost entirely handled by machines and most policies will be quoted instantaneously. This removes the need for underwriters to handle repetitive tasks such as data entry and allows them to focus their energy on handling complex submissions. These innovations will be groundbreaking for carriers and brokers.

However, independent agents stand to benefit as their customers receive increasingly accurate and error-free assessments of their risk profiles and instant quotes on most policies, allowing agents to focus on other value-add items such as product education and customer retention.

Claims

Claims processing can be a tedious task that requires hours of investigative work and the examination of countless documents. McKinsey and Company estimates that by 2030, AI and ML will play a significant role in the claims process with nearly half of all claims being fully processed without human oversight or intervention (Lemonade already handles half of their claims via AI and recently set a world record for processing a claim in just two seconds). What does this mean for agents? Well, less time focusing on data collection and information sharing with carriers and more time providing support and counsel to their customers. AI will never be able to match the interpersonal touch of a live agent, and using AI and ML to eliminate tasks such as data collection and information sharing allows agents to focus their efforts on ensuring their customers have the guidance needed to properly file their claims.

A Pivotal Moment

AI has already proven itself capable of enhancing customer support, underwriting, and claims processes. The technology is here to stay and will only become more prevalent over time. The way we see it, insurance agents have three options for how to respond:

1. Reject its implementation and become the equivalent of an agency still using a typewriter in 2010.

2. Rush to implement the technology without cause or consideration and watch it blow up in your face.

3. Identify the areas where AI can increase efficiencies and cut costs and meticulously implement the technology over time.

The key to mastering the age of AI is to choose option three. If you don’t, you may be overtaken by competitors that are more efficient and provide more value to their customers.

THE REMOTE REVOLUTION: EMPOWERING MOTHERS OF SMALL CHILDREN IN INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENCIES

In recent years, the way we work has undergone a remarkable transformation. The advent of technology and the global pandemic accelerated the shift toward remote work, making it not just a possibility but a necessity for many industries. One group that has particularly benefited from this trend is mothers of small children. Remote work has provided them with unprecedented opportunities to balance their caregiving responsibilities while pursuing meaningful careers.

The Rise of Remote Work for Mothers

Balancing a career with the demands of motherhood has never been easy. For working moms of young kids, the challenges are even more daunting. Traditional office-based jobs often require rigid schedules and long commutes, making it difficult for mothers to be present for their children during crucial developmental stages. Additionally, the high cost of childcare can sometimes make returning to work financially unviable.

However, the rise of remote work has provided a lifeline for these mothers. They can now leverage technology to work from the comfort of their homes, creating a work environment that is conducive to both their professional and caregiving responsibilities.

Why remote work become increasingly popular among mothers of young children:

• Flexibility & Work-Life Balance: Remote work allows mothers to create schedules that accommodate their children’s needs.

They can better balance work commitments with their family responsibilities. This also benefits the workplace too! Hiring and training new employees can be costly and time-consuming for employers. Mothers of small children working from home tend to have lower turnover rates because they appreciate the flexibility and work-life balance that remote work provides, making them a stable and dependable workforce.

• Increased Productivity: Studies have shown that remote workers are often more productive due to reduced workplace distractions, leading to a win-win situation for both mothers and employers.

• Reduced Commuting Stress: Eliminating daily commutes not only saves time but also reduces stress, leaving moms with more energy and focus for their work and family.

Benefits of Independent Insurance Agencies

Hiring Mothers of Small Children:

1. Diverse Skill Set: Mothers bring a unique skill set to the workplace. Multitasking and problem-solving abilities honed through parenting can be invaluable in the fast-paced world of insurance.

2. Inclusive Work Cultures: Fostering an inclusive work culture that values work-life balance, family, and diversity can create an environment where working moms feel supported and empowered.

3. Strong Work Ethic: Many mothers are highly motivated and disciplined, as they are accustomed to managing their time efficiently to meet the demands of both their family and work.

4. Empathy and Communication: Mothers often possess excellent communication skills and high levels of empathy, qualities essential in insurance sales and customer service roles.

5. Enhanced Customer Relations: The ability to relate to clients on a personal level, especially when dealing with family insurance needs, can be a significant advantage for independent insurance agencies.

6. Expanded Talent Pool: Independent insurance agencies can tap into a broader talent pool by offering remote positions, attracting skilled professionals from diverse geographical locations and backgrounds. If you’re looking to find a top, new employee for your agency, the IIAW is here to help. Contact me, diana@ iiaw.com to learn more about the staffing solutions we offer.

The rise of remote work has opened up new horizons for moms of small kids, enabling them to pursue meaningful careers while fulfilling their caregiving responsibilities.

Independent insurance agencies stand to benefit greatly from hiring mothers, who bring a diverse skill set, strong work ethic, and adaptability to the table. By creating a supportive and inclusive work environment, insurance agencies can tap into this valuable talent pool and thrive in an evolving industry. As we continue to embrace the remote work revolution, the empowerment of mothers will contribute to the success and resilience of independent insurance agencies.

I am grateful for the opportunity the IIAW has afforded me over the last five years as a remote, part-time employee. Being able to return to the workforce has allowed me to continue caring for my children, while being fulfilled and challenged professionally and intellectually. I am proud to be a part of such a fun, talented and driven team that is dedicated to making an impact within the insurance industry.

> Diana Banaszynski, HR Business Partner, IIAW

SUPREME COURT MAY GIVE BUSINESSES SOME RELIEF FROM ADA TITLE III “TESTERS”

Imagine this: Someone visits your agency’s office or website in search of technical violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act. (Recall, the ADA prohibits places of public accommodation from discriminating based on disability.) They have no intention of buying or even inquiring about insurance through your agency; they only visit your agency to find ADA violations. The person notes that your website is incompatible with screen-reading software often used by visually impaired users. They do not raise the issue with you so you can address it. Instead, they send a demand letter, or go straight to the courthouse and sue. I know for a fact this scenario does not require much imagination for many readers of this column because waves of these letters and suits have hit the insurance industry recently.

A select group of plaintiffs’ lawyers and their clients have brought thousands of these claims and lawsuits against businesses big and small, including insurance agencies. These plaintiffs are called “testers,” as they visit places of public accommodation to “test” compliance with accessibility laws, rather than to purchase goods or services. The lawsuits often result in the business paying to settle the case to avoid the steep costs of litigation and real possibility of paying the plaintiffs’ attorneys’ fees. And, while there are certainly legislative fixes to these extortion schemes, Congress has ignored the problem for years.

The United States Supreme Court may finally put an end to this scheme. The Supreme Court plans to hear oral arguments on October 4, 2023 in a “tester” case called Acheson Hotels LLC v. Laufer. Deborah Laufer is a Florida resident who uses a wheelchair and qualifies as disabled under the ADA. As a self-proclaimed “tester,” Laufer scours the internet for websites of hotels that do not provide enough information about whether the rooms are ADA-accessible.

When she finds such a website, she sues the hotel under the ADA, seeking an injunction and her attorneys’ fees. Since 2018, Laufer has filed over 600 of these lawsuits.

In September 2020, Laufer filed seven ADA lawsuits in Maine. One of the defendants was Acheson Hotels, LLC, the owner of the Coast Village Inn and Cottages in Wells, Maine. Laufer alleged that she visited their website and did not find information as to whether the inn was ADAaccessible. Laufer had no intention of visiting Maine, much less the quaint Coast Village Inn and Cottages. The question before the Supreme Court is this: Does a self-appointed ADA “tester” have standing to challenge a place of public accommodation’s failure to provide disability accessibility information on its website, even if she lacks any intention of visiting that place of public accommodation? (“Standing” is the legal ability to bring a lawsuit.)

The Supreme Court’s decision will have a significant effect on future ADA lawsuits across numerous industries and in various contexts. If the Supreme Court denies standing, businesses will have additional support to fight against testers like Laufer in the future. However, if the high court finds Laufer does have standing, it could open the floodgates to more of these ADA cases. Stay tuned – with argument in October, the Supreme Court’s decision is expected in Summer of 2024. In the meantime, if your agency is the subject of threat letters, demands or litigation based on alleged shortcomings in accessibility (typically, on a website), you should consult counsel on the best way to handle the claim.

> Josh Johanningmeier IIAW General Counsel

Members in the News

ENCOVA INSURANCE WELCOMES KATHERINE A. MABE TO BOARD OF DIRECTORS

into Robertson Ryan Insurance. While our legal name, Robertson Ryan & Associates, Inc., remains unchanged, we will identify ourselves as Robertson Ryan Insurance (or simply Robertson Ryan), accompanied by updates to our logo and overall branding.

Allan Degner, Vice President of Marketing shared, “Our core principles remain unchanged, our agent owners, service teams and affiliates are the same and there is absolutely no change in our operations. We are still the same dedicated team committed to providing the best-in-class insurance programs.” Degner added, “Our redesigned logo captures the essence of our brand –professional, modern and dynamic. Adding insurance to our name helps to further showcase our core offerings to the communities we serve.” Learn more at www. RobertsonRyan.com.

Columbus, OH (9/7/23) - Encova Insurance welcomes Katherine Mabe to their board of directors, effective Aug. 15.

Mabe brings decades of senior property and casualty insurance experience having served in leadership positions at Allstate, Nationwide and Economical Insurance of Canada. Most recently, she served as executive vice president, Allstate Insurance Distribution, which included leadership for all Allstate exclusive and independent agents for North America. You can learn more about her professional experience on encova.com.

“We’re excited to welcome Katherine to the Encova board of directors,” Board Chairman John Bishop said. “Her overwhelmingly successful career in the insurance industry and her passion for leadership bring a wealth of knowledge to our team as we continue to move Encova forward.”

“The appointment of Katherine to our board is a great advantage for our company,” Encova President and CEO TJ Obrokta Jr. said. “Diversity of thought continues to be a high priority for our directors. We look forward to Katherine’s insight on important company matters with her extensive background in insurance leadership roles.”

Mabe was elected to serve on the board of directors until the next annual meeting in April 2024, at which point she will be nominated for a three-year term.

ROBERTSON RYAN INSURANCE - NEW LOOK

Milwaukee, WI (9/12/23) - We are excited to unveil a new milestone in our 60+ year journey. After thoughtful consideration and creative exploration, we are proud to introduce our updated name and logo. Going forward, you’ll start to see Robertson Ryan & Associates evolve

WEST BEND MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY HONORED WITH TWO DISTINCT AWARDS

West Bend, WI (9/13/23) - West Bend Mutual Insurance Company was recently honored with inclusion in two lists of exemplary workplaces. First is the annual Best Places to Work in Insurance award program, which recognizes employers for their outstanding performance in establishing workplaces where employees can thrive, enjoy their work, and help their companies grow. This is the fourteenth consecutive year West Bend has made the list. The second list is Fortune Magazine's Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance™, which is based on an anonymous employee survey wherein respondents ranked West Bend well above the national average in the areas of leadership strength and integrity, pride in their work, opportunities for professional development, and support of work-life balance.

"While recognition as a top workplace among our peers is important, it's extremely meaningful when we're consistently honored from associate-based surveys," said Rob Jacques, president. "We are focused on creating a positive, welcoming environment, but at the heart of it, it's our associates that drive our great culture and make West Bend a special place."

West Bend offers its associates many amenities, including continuing education courses held in a state-of-the-art training facility; an on-site medical clinic; a 7,100-squarefoot fitness center; a variety of fitness classes; three miles of walking trails; on-site massage therapist; and wellness programs that include health risk assessments and opportunities for associates to socialize and network with one another.

West Bend associates say they like being part of a company with community and environmental priorities.

West Bend actively supports dozens of not-for-profit organizations, including Feeding America, United Way, and The MACC Fund. Care for the environment is promoted with gardens for associates to grow their own organic produce, reduction of paper use, and the preservation of 160 acres of prairie on their campus.

Since 1894, West Bend has provided valuable insurance coverages and services to home and auto owners and business owners. West Bend has earned a reputation in the industry for building and nurturing strong relationships with agents through personal contact, responsible actions, and a genuine concern for our valued partners. Today, West Bend is represented by more than 1,500 independent insurance agencies across 15 states.

SECURA INSURANCE NAMED ON 2023 RISE ELITE 50 INTERNSHIPS LIST

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.

ABOUT SECURA INSURANCE

Neenah, WI (9/18/23) - 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.

SECURA Insurance, headquartered in Neenah, Wis., is a regional group of property-casualty insurance companies operating in 13 states. Approximately 550 independent insurance agencies represent the group, which provides a broad range of competitive commercial, personal, farm, nonprofit, and special events products. SECURA Insurance is known for providing exceptional service to its agents and policyholders since 1900, and is rated A (Excellent) by A.M. Best for its excellent ability to meet policyholder obligations. It is a Ward’s Top 50 company for outstanding results in financial performance and consistency over a fiveyear period, and it is a certified Great Place to Work. Visit www.secura.net to learn more.

ACUITY NAMED TO DELOITTE 75

Sheboygan, WI (9/26/23) - Acuity is named to the Deloitte Wisconsin 75, the annual program honoring the state's largest closely held firms for their impact on Wisconsin's economy. In Acuity’s 17th year on the list, the insurer is ranked at number 21.

Companies in Wisconsin’s private sector play a key role in powering the state’s economy and communities. Each year, Deloitte recognizes the largest and most successful companies in the state.

"As we celebrate the achievements of these 75 enterprises, we are reminded of the driving force they represent in fueling economic growth and contributing to the vibrant tapestry of our state. Deloitte is proud to recognize the economic impact of these 75 private companies in Wisconsin —the Wisconsin 75. This year we will not only celebrate the individual successes of each of these organizations, but also the collective impact of private companies in powering Wisconsin's economy," said P.J. DiStefano, Wisconsin managing partner of Deloitte LLP.

Acuity Insurance, headquartered in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, insures over 125,000 businesses, including 300,000 commercial vehicles, and nearly a half million homes and private passenger autos across 31 states. Rated A+ by AM Best and S&P, Acuity employs more than 1,600 people.

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