Entries by Tori Snoddy

Pride in the Spotlight

Welcome to our Pride month edition of spotlight interviews, where we proudly highlight the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ professionals in the insurance industry. We had the privilege of sitting down with these remarkable individuals to delve into their personal journeys, insights, and perspectives. They graciously answered a series of thought-provoking questions, shedding light on their career paths, challenges faced, and the positive shifts they have witnessed within the industry. Join us as we celebrate their accomplishments, share their wisdom, and champion a more inclusive future.

Emily Clark

Staff Accountant at Falvey Insurance Group

Lynda Karalla

Manager - Human Resources Consulting and Recruiting at Amerisure

TiJuan Robinson

Associate Quality Review Tech at Liberty Mutual

Has it been difficult to bring your authentic self to work while working in the insurance industry?

I did struggle with my journey previous to finding a home in the insurance industry. I did receive numerous discriminations in other fields I worked previously but found a home at Falvey Insurance Group. Not only am I accepted here but more importantly, I am supported here. I have also found interactions with other companies to be very welcoming and truly celebrate diversity and inclusion.

At times, I have felt apprehensive about sharing my whole self at work.  I worry that I won’t be invited to have a seat at the table, that my voice will be discounted, or that my thoughts and ideas won’t be taken seriously.  I have experienced this and I have watched it happen to others around me. 

 

After a lot of reflection and reading on the topic of vulnerability, I have decided that I want to work with teams that embrace authentic connections, and to be part of a group that openly shares their wins, successes, struggles, fears, and mistakes while creating a safe space for others to do the same.  This openness creates an atmosphere of trust, empathy and collaboration where team members feel comfortable taking risks, expressing ideas and seeking support.  Vulnerability inspires compassion and understanding, and breaks down barriers between individuals while encouraging a culture of acceptance and inclusivity.  I feel very fortunate to have found my team at Amerisure that fully embraces this.  An intentional focus can not only build stronger relationships, but can also empower others to reach their full potential; leading to greater innovation, resilience, and success.

I cannot speak for the entire insurance industry. But working for Liberty Mutual has been a place where I can be my true self. It past jobs I have never revealed that I was transgender. This has been the first job where I felt seen.

In what ways has the insurance industry moved closer to diversity, equity, belonging and inclusion?

In the short time I have been in the industry, I have personally seen growth. I believe that between so much civil unrest within so many different communities that companies have started to take a strong stance on the issues and I believe see the benefits of a more diverse workforce. I also contributing this to great organizations like RISE, DAIP, APIW, and many others standing up and showing the importance DEI and spotlighting companies that are working toward a better future. This in turn pushes employees to work for better companies that have similar values.

Again, within Liberty Mutual I have seen women, and people of color being promoted. There are so many Employee resource groups and people that you can reach out to. We also celebrate all cultures, ethnicities, and sexes. Even in our quoting system we acknowledge non-binary individuals. Our health insurance insure gender affirming care. The company pays for surrogacy for same sex couples. There are so many different things.

What advice would you give your younger self beginning your career in insurance? What prepared you to be in the role/position you currently occupy?

I would tell myself that insurance isn’t what you think it is. It is actually a challenging industry with so much growth opportunity. It is also full of amazing people doing positive things in this world. As an accountant in my company, owning a couple of businesses prior helped me a great deal. I was able to learn so much of the accounting field while learning to grow great relationships with my clients.

Find a company with values that align with yours.  When your values and beliefs are shared and practiced by the organization you work for, you are more likely to feel a strong connection to your work and find meaning in what you do. 

Learn as much as you can! You can never stop learning. Reach out to people in roles that you desire. Increase your education. Take advantage of tuition reimbursement.

Do you see yourself represented in your peers and/or leaders in the insurance industry?  

At this time, I do not. I don’t blame the insurance industry directly as I have seen so much positivity in my experiences. I just think companies need to do a little better job of showing what the insurance industry has to offer and extend the so-called olive branch to the community. I am personally, with my DEI committee, will be attending Pride on Sat June 17th to do our part to show the community a safe and accepting industry.  I would love to share this space with my transgender and gender nonconforming family. I do hope other companies find ways to reach out to my community more so they can see just how great it is.

When I joined the insurance industry in 2016, I did not see myself represented among my peers or leaders.  Over the past 7.5 years, I have seen that shift in a positive way.  Because there has been increase in groups, like RISE, who are being intentional in focusing on inclusion and belonging, I believe more LGBTQ+ people are feeling safer being their authentic selves.

 

While feeling unrepresented at work can be a struggle, there is immense value in being seen and heard.  I am grateful to have worked with teams where my thoughts, ideas, and perspectives are acknowledged and given a platform.  For me, it has fostered a sense of validation and inclusion.  Even though I don’t always find individuals who share my exact background, I feel my voice has been recognized and respected.  This allows me to contribute in meaningful ways.  It also empowers me to be able to share the narrative, challenge biases, and pave the way for a more diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces the unique contributions of each individual.

With only 2 years under my belt, I am a leader within the ERG. But I have yet to be a leader within the insurance industry. But stay tuned. That 5 year plan is already ahead of schedule!!

We extend our deepest gratitude to each interviewee for their courage and vulnerability in sharing their authentic selves. In a world where it is not always safe or easy to live one’s truth, their openness is truly inspiring. Their stories and experiences contribute to the ongoing dialogue on the importance of creating safe spaces and fostering acceptance for all individuals, showcasing resilience, authenticity, and the transformative power of diversity. 

RISE stands as a proud ally, committed to creating a safe and inclusive space where the LGBTQ+ community can thrive and flourish in their careers. It is encouraging to witness the positive strides the industry is taking towards diversity, equity, belonging, and inclusion, however, we recognize that there is still a lot of work to be done for the entire industry to fully embrace diversity. Together, we strive to foster an environment that celebrates and values the unique contributions of every individual, promoting a future where inclusivity is the foundation of the insurance industry and beyond.

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Top 5 Benefits of Being in Insurance

Introducing Elisa Swanson’s insights on the insurance industry and its exciting possibilities! In her thoughtful exploration, Elisa shares five key tips that shed light on the abundant opportunities within this booming field. Join Elisa as she delves into the world of insurance, unveiling its dynamic nature, meaningful work, and boundless potential for personal and professional growth.

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Elisa Swanson
Actuarial Analyst

Berkley Healthcare

  1. Entry-level positions – the industry is booming and that means there are plenty of jobs, especially entry level jobs. It’s like the doors to the industry are busted wide open and it’s accepting anyone that’s up for the job. I’ve found that in insurance, people from every background have stumbled into the industry. You studied psychology in college? Great, you have a deeper understanding of human behavior that could be utilized in underwriting. You were a nurse? Perfect, our claims team gets plenty of medical reports and your expertise will be invaluable in assessing them accurately. Did you work in retail? Fantastic, your customer service skills will set you apart in handling client inquiries and building relationships. The diversity of backgrounds brings fresh perspectives and contributes to the dynamic growth of the industry. 
  2. Flexibility – According to McKinsey & Company, 3/4s of the time spent on tasks in the finance and insurance industries can be done remotely. Meaning, through the pandemic, insurance companies were still productive and, therefore, companies are more open to hybrid and remote roles. I, myself, work three days in office and two days at home, but if I am waiting for a package or my dog gets sick, I can work from home and continue doing my job.
  3. Diversity – I’ve met people in every step of their career and people from all around the world. Insurance is a global industry. In fact, when I was an intern, I had the opportunity to work with people from Spain, Australia, and Canada. Because the industry is diverse, I’ve found that D&I initiatives are well-thought out and have ample support. As a American-born Chinese, it’s nice to see people that look like me and as a woman, it’s empowering to see female leaders support young women.
  4. Your job today doesn’t have to be your job tomorrow – there are so many different roles of insurance. I’m an actuarial analyst, but even in analyst roles, there are operations analysts, claims analysts, business analysts, and data analysts. Insurance is a data driven industry; being a math lover, it speaks to me. Your career in insurance isn’t linear. There are people that starts in claims and end in leadership or people that start in operations and end in claims. There are actuaries that end up in recruiting. The future is limitless and you could be at the same company!
  5. The work you do matters – I know the industry has a bad reputation. The big bad insurance, but insurance wraps the world in safety. It is everywhere you look. The doctor you went to see for your broken bone? She has insurance. The car you drove to work in? It has insurance. The house you sleep in? It has insurance. Insurance gives the world peace of mind. It ensures even in the face of catastrophe, someone isn’t left out on a limb.

Elisa Swanson’s valuable insights on the insurance industry shed light on its vibrant and ever-evolving nature. From the abundance of entry-level positions to the flexibility of remote work, the industry offers a wealth of opportunities for professionals at all stages of their careers. The industry’s emphasis on diversity and inclusion, coupled with its myriad of roles and career paths, ensures that individuals from all backgrounds can thrive and contribute to its success. Most importantly, Elisa reminds us that the work done in insurance matters, as it provides essential protection and peace of mind to individuals and communities worldwide.

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POV: Being Under 25 in Insurance

Elisa Swanson

Actuarial Analysis at Berkley Healthcare

I joined the insurance industry in the middle of the pandemic. Being a 2020 grad, I was the guinea pig for a lot of first-time virtual interviews for companies. I jumped from zoom interviews to zoom class using a crate as a pseudo desk in my childhood bedroom. Back then, everyone reassured me that it was just a couple weeks and I’d be starting full-time in office in no time.

In June of 2020, I started my first job with the intention of working from home for 1 month, 1 month turned into 3; then, when I did return to an office, it was only a couple of days a week. I learned all the basics of insurance on virtual calls, met my coworkers through zoom happy hours, and I knew more about someone’s house decor than their choice in pants. The first time I met one of my coworkers, I realized I had imagined him a good 8 inches shorter than he really was. Joining any industry in 2020 was difficult, but then there were the insurance specific problems.

Auto losses that suddenly weren’t as frequent, but more severe, as people thought they could drive faster on seemingly empty roads.  Courts being closed so decisions on claims being drawn out longer and longer.  Adding communicable disease verbiage to policies. Having exposures plummet as restaurants closed, construction halted, and buses weren’t running. The insurance industry trying to restate what a catastrophe was.

Three years later, I’ve never worked full-time in an office. I’ve spent my whole (albeit short) career asking when is the impact of COVID ending, when will the numbers return to normal – a normal I’ve never seen. I add WebEx links to every meeting in case the recipients won’t be in person. I’ve learned to connect with my teammates across every medium: video call, IM, and, sometimes, in person. These things are not the things that set me apart at work, though. I took typing classes in elementary school and most of my textbooks in school weren’t physical copies. I learned to code in a classroom, not from a book or on the job. My LinkedIn is more up to date than my Facebook, and I spend my lunch break scrolling TikTok. I even take BeReals of my workspace.

According to the US Chambers of Commerce, over the next 15 years, 50% of the workers currently in the insurance industry will retire. As in, more of my coworkers are twice my age. Some remember the first spreadsheet or when actuaries did their tables by hand. Some were in college when I was learning to walk. But, that’s not why I’m writing this. I’m saying the insurance industry needs young people. Insurance may not appear sexy, but it’s stable, and it’s fun, and I’ve met a wide variety of people working through it. I’ve traveled in insurance. I’ve attended seminars and networked. I’ve built up my public speaking and presentation skills. I’ve made life-long friends, and I’ve moved away and back to home. I even have funny work stories! I love insurance and I want other young people to realize how wonderful it is too.

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DEI Spotlight: Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Jared Yee, MBA

Senior Client Service Manager at Liberty Mutual Insurance

Margaret T. Ling, Esq.

NYS Agency Business Development & Underwriting Counsel at Amtrust Title

Rachel H. Kim

Vice President, Senior Claims Counsel at Sompo International

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Jared: Make yourself irreplaceable.  By having this mindset, I’ve always tried to go above and beyond the expectations of a job.  That’s lead to self-growth as well as new opportunities in my career.  I initially thought this advice was about job security but quickly learned that it drives you to innovate and be a better version of yourself every day.  When you try to make yourself irreplaceable, you’re often creating value by challenging the status quo.

Margaret: Be genuine; sincere and be yourself;  never underestimate your ability to know the law and be a good attorney.

Rachel: How you treat people matters.  Particularly those who may tend to get overlooked. 

Relationships matter.  This is a relationship business.  Network, follow up, and network some more.  Go to networking events.

Members of the AAPI community are often viewed as the “model minority” – smart, hardworking, team-players but state that they are not always sought out for leadership roles. What, if any challenges have you faced because of this perception and how have you overcome those challenges?

Jared: People often think of the “model minority” stereotype as a good thing, but it’s a double-edged sword.  It’s because of the perception that Asians are smart and hard working that they are often left out of the discussion when it comes to workplace discrimination.  My personal experience has been mostly positive, but I have occasionally faced challenges of people having preconceived notions of who I am.  I found the best way to overcome this is by communicating and building relationships.  Sometimes people just need the opportunity to learn more about you.  Finding those opportunities with everyone isn’t always easy and sometimes you have to put yourself out there but it’s very much worth the effort.

Margaret: Very true, Asians are stereotyped as we are quiet. I have faced quick judgment from others that Asians  are complacent and passive. My response to this is to tell others that our Asian Culture engrains in us to be quiet and listen. We are very intuitive and think, observe and absorb what happens around us before we act. My Parents always taught me to listen and not say anything unless it truly was substantive and mattered.  Mindless banter was not necessary. My experience in my legal career has been to say that Asians are “Quiet Thunder”.  We will tolerate a great deal until we speak up and then it’s like a volcanic eruption. I have overcome other’s stereotypes by speaking up more and being more active and engaged. I am always gracious and have realized that being quiet will only lead to exclusion and judgment by others. I tell others that being quiet is not a sign of passive weakness as we are thinking and analyzing. I have continued to try to break the stereotypes and show them that AAPI Attorneys are as articulate and strong as others. We just show it and act on it in a different way.

Rachel: When I was in elementary school, my father would periodically hand me envelopes with a small amount of cash (true story) in an envelope labeled, “Leadership Fund” and would say, “Go, be a leader at something with this money.”  When I was younger, I rarely spoke up; the double consciousness was constantly a factor, and sometimes I was my own worst critic.  Going to a rigorous graduate school forced me to continually speak  up, and I’m going to conflate Questions 1 and 2 here, but the best advice I have to combat double consciousness and/or being your own worst critic is to push yourself to speak up.  Volunteering to lead meetings, conferences, and challenging yourself to be a speaker on panels or leading your own.  Learning to find a way to express your thoughts but also showing you can listen attentively and you have the ability to be flexible in your analysis and speaking style.  As one of my mentors once said to me, “Use everyday opportunities to show that you are a leader.”

What do you know now that you wished you knew when you began your career?

Jared: Speaking up and having a voice is so important.  Early in my career, I kept my ideas and opinions to myself, especially in large group settings.  I thought it was more important to listen since everyone in the room had more experience than me but learned that’s not always the case.  Experience and length of time are not synonymous, and sometimes your unique perspective can broaden the conversation.  I also found myself learning a lot more by engaging in conversations rather than just listening.   I think everyone has some level of apprehension speaking up early in their careers, but the sooner you get over that fear the better off you’ll be.

Margaret: I know now that it is okay to be more outspoken and articulate as long as it is substantiated. I have learned over time that the world and society does not always think the same way as us.  I have learned to trust my judgment and intuition when someone is not being sincere and genuine. After 40 years as an Attorney, I now know that others are not always on your page with the same genuine motives.  Many times they are taking advantage of the helpful, kind, hardworking and quiet person. I mentor many young attorneys and law students and teach them to focus on the realities of society.” Do not let anyone crush your thunder and take advantage of your hard work and effort”

Rachel: Bring out the excellence of others around you.  Be team oriented – a rising tide lifts all boats. 

Simultaneously, be confident and know your worth.  Dare to create your dream job.

Pick and choose your battles.  Align yourself with mentors, managers, senior personnel – someone who will help you see the big picture.

Don’t lose sight of your company’s vision.

Don’t put your head down and simply work.  The “goodwill lap” is very much needed – walking around the hallway and engaging with colleagues, particularly from different groups.

Choose connection, every time. 

Master the ABC’s of your job, and then take on more.

Excel and become a subject matter expert in one area, but find the balance where you are not just pigeonholed into one area, but challenge yourself to take on additional subject areas. 

In your opinion, what needs to happen in order to break the corporate glass ceiling and expand the presence of Asian Americans in executive suites?

Jared: Asian discrimination in both education and the workforce should be talked about more, as its often minimized or overlooked.  Companies need to promote and increase the representation of Asian Americans in leadership positions.  Currently, Asians make up a very small percentage of senior leadership positions despite having a high percentage of graduate and professional degrees.  Finally, Asian Americans need to continue to develop their leadership skills, advocate for themselves, and seek out leadership opportunities.

Margaret: There needs to be a better understanding; implementation and practice of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging from the Corner Office and Upper Management. It will then flow down so that everyone feels embraced regardless of how different they may be. In choosing DEI Chief Diversity Officers, Individuals who truly care and practice DEI and Belonging must be hired. It shouldn’t be hiring someone just to check off a box. Good Corporate Culture where DEI and B is actually embraced and practiced correctly amongst everyone in a Company will lead to an inclusion environment where everyone is happy. Happy Staff leads to being more productive and greater success and profitability.

Rachel: Proven leadership; continued visibility; sponsorship.

 

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Spotlight on Success: A Q&A with Owie L. Agbontaen, 35 under 35 Awardee

Join us as we dive into the stories of past winners of the RISE Awards! In this exclusive blog series, we sit down with the award-winning innovators, disruptors, and rising stars of the insurance industry to learn more about their journeys, experiences, and unique perspectives. Through these interviews, we hope to inspire and encourage the next generation of insurance leaders, while also highlighting the impressive accomplishments of these young professionals.

We recently had the pleasure of speaking with Owie L. Agbontaen, an AVP Business Development Leader for the North Central Region at Sompo International, who was a recipient of the prestigious 35 under 35 award. Here’s what Owie had to say about his experience:

What did the nomination and award mean to you?

“It truly meant a lot to be nominated and awarded the 35 u 35 award because it allowed me to be recognized for the work I have put in at such a young age. The recognition alone was great however it also gave colleagues more reason to pay attention to what I was doing and the goals I was trying to reach.”

How did it impact you personally and/or professionally?

“Personally, it made me proud to be a part of an industry that rewards hard work and dedication. Professionally, it showed that I do belong in my position and have accomplished so much thus far.”

Where are you now?

“Currently still at Sompo International as an AVP Business Development Leader for the North Central Region.”

How did you first join/ enter the industry?

“I joined through the CNA trainee program as a Middle Market Underwriter.”

What advice would you share with young professionals or someone just getting started in the industry?

“Continue to stay true to yourself and what you want to accomplish. The industry is never short of young talent that can bring new and creative ideas to life.”

Owie’s story is a testament to the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance in achieving success in the insurance industry. We hope that his experience and advice will inspire other young professionals to strive for excellence and reach their full potential in their careers.

Ready to level up your leadership skills and connect with industry leaders? Join us for the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala! This premier event is packed with interactive leadership training, top-tier networking opportunities, and a proper celebration for our esteemed 35 Under 35 Winners.

With fast-paced TED-Talk style sessions and engaging workshops, you’ll learn from the best in the business and gain insights to drive your success. Plus, you’ll have the chance to connect with peers from over 150 companies, fostering valuable relationships that can propel your career forward. 

Register now at https://riseprofessionals.com/events/2023-leadership-summit-awards-gala/ and secure your spot at the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala.

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Mary Calmer: How Winning a 35 Under 35 Award Helped Her Take Control of Her Career

In this exclusive blog series, we sit down with the award-winning innovators, disruptors, and rising stars of the insurance industry to learn more about their journeys, experiences, and unique perspectives. Through these interviews, we hope to inspire and encourage the next generation of insurance leaders, while also highlighting the impressive accomplishments of these young professionals.

Mary Calmer, an agribusiness portfolio underwriter at Westfield, had always been determined to succeed in the insurance industry. But as a young professional, she often found herself feeling unsure of her place among more experienced colleagues. That all changed when she was nominated for and won a 35 under 35 award.

For Mary, the nomination was a validation of her hard work and dedication to the industry. It gave her the confidence to step up as a professional, even when she felt like the least experienced person in the room. “I’m no longer holding myself back from opportunities!” she says.

But the award also had a significant impact on Mary’s personal and professional life. It allowed her to meet other young professionals who were doing amazing things in the industry, and to network with them. It also solidified her desire to spread awareness to other young people about the opportunities available in insurance. “Seeing what the other award winners are doing was so inspiring!” she says.

Since winning the award, Mary was promoted at Crum & Forster, and has now started a new role at Westfield, where she continues to make a difference in the industry. But she hasn’t forgotten the struggles she faced as a young professional trying to break into the industry. She has some advice for others just starting out:

“Get on LinkedIn and network,” she says. “Reach out for advice – people are more than happy to help out or find someone who can. Find a local professional group and join. If nothing else, you will make some awesome friends. One piece of advice that always keeps me pushing beyond my comfort zone is ‘if it scares you, it might be a good thing to try.'”

Mary’s story is a testament to the power of recognition and community in shaping a successful career. By taking control of her own professional development and seeking out opportunities to connect with others in the industry, she has achieved great success and is an inspiration to other young professionals looking to do the same.

Ready to level up your leadership skills and connect with industry leaders? Join us for the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala! This premier event is packed with interactive leadership training, top-tier networking opportunities, and a proper celebration for our esteemed 35 Under 35 Winners.

With fast-paced TED-Talk style sessions and engaging workshops, you’ll learn from the best in the business and gain insights to drive your success. Plus, you’ll have the chance to connect with peers from over 150 companies, fostering valuable relationships that can propel your career forward. 

Register now at https://riseprofessionals.com/events/2023-leadership-summit-awards-gala/ and secure your spot at the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala.

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Rising Star Rachel Jenkins: Recognizing Young Talent in the Insurance Industry

Welcome back to our ongoing blog series featuring past winners of the RISE Award! In these exclusive interviews, we sit down with the brightest young minds in the insurance industry to learn about their journeys, experiences, and unique perspectives. As we continue this series, we hope to inspire and encourage the next generation of insurance leaders, while also showcasing the impressive accomplishments of these rising stars. Join us as we uncover the inspiring stories of these past winners and discover what it takes to succeed in the dynamic world of insurance.

Meet Rachel Jenkins, a rising star in the insurance industry who was nominated and awarded for her hard work and dedication in 2022. Rachel’s recognition was well-deserved, as she has been making waves in the industry with her leadership skills and ability to drive success.

When asked about what the nomination and award meant to her, Rachel stated that it served as recognition for her hard work thus far. She was able to meet and network with other star contributors in the industry, and share her recognition with friends and family in a way they can recognize it.

Personally, Rachel was able to share the honor with her team and bring people with her to watch her receive the award. Professionally, it’s something that drives conversation with colleagues and spreads awareness about the accomplishments of younger and newer entrants into the insurance space at a time when things are very top-heavy and it’s hard to be seen.

Currently, Rachel is leading multiple teams to success while managing and pushing product development forward at Foundershield. She’s making a significant impact in the company, and her dedication and leadership are reflected in her team’s accomplishments.

Rachel’s entry into the insurance industry was a result of her doing an operations internship the summer before joining AIG as an underwriter. It was a valuable experience that paved the way for her to make a meaningful contribution to the industry.

For young professionals or those just getting started in the industry, Rachel shares valuable advice: stay diligent, be thorough, and learn the basics. Know and demand what you’re worth and keep pushing forward.

Rachel’s story is an inspiration to many young professionals looking to make their mark in the insurance industry. Her dedication, hard work, and leadership skills are a testament to what can be achieved with the right mindset and work ethic. Congratulations to Rachel for her nomination and award, and we look forward to seeing more of her contributions to the industry in the years to come.

Ready to level up your leadership skills and connect with industry leaders? Join us for the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala! This premier event is packed with interactive leadership training, top-tier networking opportunities, and a proper celebration for our esteemed 35 Under 35 Winners.

With fast-paced TED-Talk style sessions and engaging workshops, you’ll learn from the best in the business and gain insights to drive your success. Plus, you’ll have the chance to connect with peers from over 150 companies, fostering valuable relationships that can propel your career forward. 

Register now at https://riseprofessionals.com/events/2023-leadership-summit-awards-gala/ and secure your spot at the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala.

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An Interview with Lauren Fernandez, 2022 RISE Awards 35 Under 35 Recipient

Out Voices of the Future series continues to showcase the brightest young minds in the insurance industry! Through these exclusive interviews with past winners of the 35 under 35 award for insurance professionals, we hope to showcase the impressive accomplishments and unique perspectives of these rising stars. Join us as we uncover the inspiring journeys of these past winners and discover what it takes to succeed in the dynamic world of insurance.

Lauren Fernandez is a rising star in the insurance and legal industry, having been named one of the 2022 Rising Star 35 Under 35 recipients. In this interview, she shares her thoughts on the nomination, how it has impacted her personally and professionally, where she is now, how she first entered the industry, and her advice for young professionals just starting out.

What did the nomination and award mean to you?

Lauren shared that being named among the high caliber group of professionals that made up the 2022 Rising Star 35 Under 35 recipients was a surprise and an incredible honor. It served as a reminder that even when we may not feel like we are making progress, others are looking to us as an example.

How did it impact you personally and/or professionally?

On a personal level, the nomination was a reminder to look up and appreciate how far she has come. Professionally, she was able to build great relationships with other professionals connected with RISE, which she is grateful for.

Where are you now since receiving the award?

Lauren co-founded Palm Coast Staffing, a recruiting firm that primarily focuses on all roles within the legal space. She has enjoyed putting the entrepreneur hat back on and all the opportunities that come with it.

How did you first join/enter the industry?

Lauren shared that like many others, she stumbled into the industry. Once she discovered the vast world of insurance and legal, she was hooked. She loves being able to talk to individuals with a wide variety of backgrounds and learning something new every day.

What advice would you share with young professionals or someone just getting started in the industry?

Lauren’s advice is to not shy away from meeting others in your industry or similar industries, as your network is your net worth. You never know where a seemingly simple conversation will lead you in a few years. To quote her father, “Who you know gets you in the door, what you know keeps you there.”

In conclusion, Lauren’s journey in the industry so far is an inspiration to young professionals looking to make a name for themselves. Her reminder to appreciate progress and build a strong network are valuable insights that anyone can use to succeed in their career.

Ready to level up your leadership skills and connect with industry leaders? Join us for the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala! This premier event is packed with interactive leadership training, top-tier networking opportunities, and a proper celebration for our esteemed 35 Under 35 Winners.

With fast-paced TED-Talk style sessions and engaging workshops, you’ll learn from the best in the business and gain insights to drive your success. Plus, you’ll have the chance to connect with peers from over 150 companies, fostering valuable relationships that can propel your career forward. 

Register now at https://riseprofessionals.com/events/2023-leadership-summit-awards-gala/ and secure your spot at the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala.

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Rising to Success: A Q&A with Cynthia Scott on Her RISE Award, Career Journey, and Advice for Young Professionals

Join us as we dive into the stories of past winners of the RISE Awards! In this exclusive blog series, we sit down with the award-winning innovators, disruptors, and rising stars of the insurance industry to learn more about their journeys, experiences, and unique perspectives. Through these interviews, we hope to inspire and encourage the next generation of insurance leaders, while also highlighting the impressive accomplishments of these young professionals.

Meet Cynthia Scott, a team lead for a property handling group at Tower Hill Insurance Group. Cynthia was nominated for the 2022 RISE Award, an honor she says she will never forget. We caught up with Cynthia to learn more about what the nomination and award meant to her, how it impacted her personally and professionally, where she is now, and her advice for young professionals just starting in the industry.

Q: What did the nomination and award mean to you?

A: The nomination alone was such an honor to receive. To be recognized by my fellow leaders as a RISE candidate is a memorable part of my career I won’t soon forget.

Q: How did it impact you personally and/or professionally?

A: Personally, it gave me more confidence in myself and the path I have chosen. Professionally, it has opened doors and helped me grow my network in the industry.

Q: Where are you now?

A: I am currently working at Tower Hill Insurance Group going on 8 years, as a Team Lead for a property handling group.

Q: How did you first join/enter the industry?

A: I first entered the industry in 2015 with no prior experience as a Claims Adjuster with Tower Hill.

Q: What advice would you share with young professionals or someone just getting started in the industry?

A: My advice would be to read, ask questions, and absorb. Whenever I am feeling stuck or face a new challenge, articles, books, or reaching out to my mentor (Migdalia Diaz) for advice helps me to navigate and find the solution. Having these tools is undoubtedly the key to success for me.

Cynthia’s journey into the insurance industry serves as an inspiration for young professionals just getting started. Her hard work and dedication have paid off, and her recognition as a RISE nominee shows that the industry has taken note. Cynthia’s advice to young professionals to read, ask questions, and absorb is critical, as the insurance industry is ever-changing, and staying up-to-date is essential. We wish Cynthia continued success in her career and look forward to seeing where her path takes her.

Ready to level up your leadership skills and connect with industry leaders? Join us for the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala! This premier event is packed with interactive leadership training, top-tier networking opportunities, and a proper celebration for our esteemed 35 Under 35 Winners.

With fast-paced TED-Talk style sessions and engaging workshops, you’ll learn from the best in the business and gain insights to drive your success. Plus, you’ll have the chance to connect with peers from over 150 companies, fostering valuable relationships that can propel your career forward. 

Register now at https://riseprofessionals.com/events/2023-leadership-summit-awards-gala/ and secure your spot at the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala.

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Chris Wright: A Rising Star in the Insurance Industry

Welcome back to our blog series featuring past winners of the RISE Award! In these exclusive interviews, we sit down with the brightest young minds in the insurance industry to learn about their journeys, experiences, and unique perspectives. As we continue this series, we hope to inspire and encourage the next generation of insurance leaders, while also showcasing the impressive accomplishments of these rising stars. Join us as we uncover the inspiring stories of these past winners and discover what it takes to succeed in the dynamic world of insurance.

For many, the insurance industry may not seem like the most exciting career choice. But for Chris Wright, it’s been the career of his dreams. Wright, who is currently an Associate Manager of Casualty Claims at The Cincinnati Insurance Company, was recently honored with the prestigious RISE Award for his outstanding contributions to the industry.

We caught up with Chris to ask him about his experience and to get his advice for young professionals looking to start a career in the insurance industry.

When asked what the nomination and award meant to him, Chris replied that it was one of the highlights of his career. “I still feel deeply honored to have been selected and I cherish the physical award that I display proudly in my office. From a personal perspective, being honored in such a way gave me a renewed appreciation for all the blood, sweat, and tears I’ve put into my career and helping others succeed over the past 10+ years.”

But the impact wasn’t just personal. Chris also shared how the recognition he received from his peers and colleagues motivated him to keep working hard and made him want to continue “paying it forward” even more.

With more than 10 years at The Cincinnati Insurance Company, Chris has made steady progress in his career, earning promotions and advancing his skills. He was recently promoted to management as an Associate Manager of Casualty Claims, a position that he sees as the next step in his career with hopes of securing an officer-eligible position.

When asked what advice he would give to young professionals starting out in the industry, Chris emphasized the importance of hard work, embracing continuing education, and not being afraid to ask questions. He also urged them to figure out where they would like to see their career in 5 to 10 years and to set goals along the way, as periodic goals help keep one focused. Lastly, Chris advised that if you’re not asking questions on a daily basis, you’re not learning, and if you’re not learning, you’re not getting better at your job.

Chris’s advice is a testament to the hard work and dedication he has put into his career. His success in the industry is proof that with the right mindset and work ethic, young professionals can rise to the top of the industry and be recognized for their contributions.

Ready to level up your leadership skills and connect with industry leaders? Join us for the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala! This premier event is packed with interactive leadership training, top-tier networking opportunities, and a proper celebration for our esteemed 35 Under 35 Winners.

With fast-paced TED-Talk style sessions and engaging workshops, you’ll learn from the best in the business and gain insights to drive your success. Plus, you’ll have the chance to connect with peers from over 150 companies, fostering valuable relationships that can propel your career forward. 

Register now at https://riseprofessionals.com/events/2023-leadership-summit-awards-gala/ and secure your spot at the 2023 RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala.

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