CONVENTION included complimentary professional headshots for all attendees and a keynote address delivered by April Simpkins , providing valuable insights and inspiration .
The overarching theme of the convention was " Surviving the Hard Market ," reflecting the challenges agents are facing in the current insurance marketplace . Many conference sessions focused on strategies and tactics to navigate these challenges successfully . winners . Your unwavering commitment , expertise , and tireless efforts are truly commendable . Thank you for your invaluable contributions to our industry and KAIA . Your achievements serve as a testament to the excellence that defines our community ."
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2024 Industry Awards . Submissions are accepted through November 1 , 2024 . To learn more about the award process and make your nomination , visit : kaia . com / industry-awards /
ATTENDEES TAKE PART IN THE " INSURANCE GAME OF GAMES " SESSION
SARA BRADSHAW RAY LED OUR IMPACTFUL WOMEN ' S SESSION
Industry award winners were announced during the convention , recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the insurance industry . Our 2023 award winners included :
• Agent of the Year : Robert Richey , Conrade Insurance Group
• Distinguished Service Award : Cindy Hower , Kellerman Insurance
• Company Rep of the Year : Sue FitzGerald , Marysville Mutual Insurance Company
• Outstanding Young Agent : Ashton Fee , Fee Insurance Group
• Outstanding Account Manager : Lori Kearns , Raleigh Insurance Agency
KAIA ' s Executive Director Dave Hulcher expressed his pride in the award winners : " We are continually inspired by the exceptional talent and dedication within the Kansas insurance agent community . Congratulations to this year ' s deserving award
Also , during the luncheon on Tuesday , February 6th , Big " I " Chairman-Elect , Todd Jackson , installed KAIA ' s new officers for 2024 . The leadership team includes :
• President : Kevin O ’ Brien , The Reilly Company
• President-Elect : Bryan Schmitz , SBS Insurance Agency
• VP / Treasurer : David Vogel , ProValue Insurance , LLC
• Secretary / Asst . Treasurer : Brock Elliott , Elliott Group
• National Director : Jo Erin Stuteville , Elliott Group
• Immediate Past President : Lucas Raleigh , Raleigh Insurance Agency
• Zone 1 Director : Shelby Doty , Insurance Planning , Inc .
• Zone 2 Director : Bryce Hundley , Hundley Insurance Services
• Director-At-Large : Cristi Werth , TWI Insurance
MARCH / APRIL 2024
13