President's Message

REFLECTIONS ON A SUCCESSFUL YEAR

As we approach the year’s end, it’s good to reflect on accomplishments, while also looking to upcoming initiatives.

For IA&B, 2023 was a year of gatherings. We tested the waters with a return to in-person conferences, and even we were surprised by the turnout. From our first Women’s Conference in the spring, to the return of our Young Agent Conference this fall (see photos on page 19), you showed up! Both conferences sold out, and they were great successes. Attendees gained valuable knowledge from superb speakers, but just as important, networked with fellow agents and IA&B staff. They were energizing, educational, and fun events – and they will continue in 2024.

In this issue, you’ll meet our current board of directors, including our new chair of the board. This board likewise gathered during the year, four times in highly strategic meetings meant to provide valuable returns for our members. The commitment of our board cannot be overstated, and 2023 was a very busy year. We created a long-term strategic plan –a plan that will drive our work (and your member resources) in the coming years.

From this plan, we are most excited about our insurance school, which will launch at the end of 2024. As work continues and it begins to take shape, I can tell you that it is going to be a gamechanger. New talent will be coming exclusively to IA&B members.

They say time flies when you are having fun – and 2023 was a blur as we delivered to our members throughout the year. All of us at IA&B wish you and yours a very happy holiday season. And we look forward to a prosperous 2024.

Until next time,

Jason F. Ernest

President & CEO