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CatEgories and Nominees


Agent of the Year-

  • Dillon Rosenhamer- INSURICA
  • Tim Zufall- Tedford & Associates
  • Mark Tedford- Tedford & Associates
  • Colton Zajak- INSURICA
    • With a decade of experience in the insurance industry, I am both humbled and honored to be considered for this prestigious award. As an Employee Benefits Producer for the past 10 years, my approach to employee benefits has not only set me apart but has also enabled my clients to excel in recruiting and retaining employees at a superior rate compared to their peers. Recently, I have expanded my responsibilities, taking on Sales and Branch Leader roles, all while maintaining a steadfast focus on Employee Benefits. Beyond the professional realm, I find joy in watching sports, staying active through exercise, and cherishing moments of relaxation with friends and family. I am genuinely grateful for the recognition and want to extend a huge thank you to those who have deemed me worthy of this honor. It is truly a privilege to be considered for this award.
  • Dakota Coffman- Covenant Insurance Services

 

Young Agent of the Year-

  • Ryan Smith- Smith & Sons
    • With over a decade of commitment at Smith & Sons Insurance Agency, I am grateful to have been nominated for this award. Back in 2021, I was nominated and chosen as the Young Agent of the Year by my esteemed friends and colleagues. As a participant in Season 2 of "The Protege" and the driving force behind the initiation of the Oklahoma Young Agents Show podcast in 2022, I led the Young Agents Committee to earn the 2023 Innovative YAC of the Year for our collective efforts. Throughout my four years on the committee, I've passionately dedicated myself to educating clients about the intricacies of the global insurance system. My background includes studying Insurance & Risk Management at the University of Central Oklahoma, launching my career as an Associate Underwriter for CSAA Insurance, and serving as an Insurance Analyst at SandRidge Energy before becoming an Agent and Co-Owner of Smith & Sons Insurance Agency in 2018, specializing in Commercial Insurance for contractors and commercial property. Beyond my professional life, I proudly hold the role of Oklahoma Chair for the US Handball Association and engage in diverse personal interests, including gardening, bowhunting, and coaching a little league baseball team. I express sincere gratitude for the nomination, as the Young Agents group has significantly impacted my career. I am honored to be considered, and my commitment to its mission extends beyond my tenure on the committee.
  • Tuscon Grigg- Tedford Insurance
  • Tripp Harris- Glenn Harris & Associates
  • Trey Finn- Professional Insurors
  • Jacquelyn Bridges- Cherokee Insurance
    • In my four years of experience in the insurance industry, I am honored to have achieved significant milestones, including receiving the prestigious Associate of the 4th Quarter Award in 2023 and being acknowledged as the Top Producer for my agency in the same year. I am passionate about transforming the way people perceive insurance and firmly believe in the importance of educating our clients on the intricacies of their policies and coverages. Witnessing my clients leave my office with a profound sense of peace of mind, knowing they are fully protected, is the most rewarding aspect of my work. My journey began in the medical field as a phlebotomist, and after embracing an opportunity with a captive agency following the birth of my daughter, I swiftly rose to become the top producer and office manager. A pivotal moment occurred when I was approached by Cherokee Strip Insurance Agency, prompting my leap into the independent agency side of the industry. With a focus on Commercial Insurance Expertise, I am convinced that this transition was the optimal choice for my professional growth. Beyond my career, my love for cooking, outdoor activities, and sports is complemented by the joy of being a mother to two wonderful children – the most fulfilling role in my life. I am grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this award, as it reflects not only my dedication to the insurance profession but also my commitment to continuous learning and excellence.

 

CSR of the Year-

  • Amber Warden- Dillingham Insurance

With 15 years of dedicated experience in the insurance industry, I am honored to be considered for this award. As a Commercial Lines Senior Account Manager, my passion lies in ensuring our clients receive effective risk management solutions tailored to their unique needs. By actively managing client accounts and cultivating strong relationships, I contribute to mitigating potential risks for both clients and insurance companies, fostering a more stable and efficient insurance market overall. My expertise spans 15 years in Commercial Accounts, with a specific focus on managing large and complex accounts, including publicly traded entities and layered property. My commitment extends beyond the professional realm to spending cherished moments with my family, particularly attending and supporting our youngest in her various sports events. I am truly grateful for the recognition and the opportunity to continue contributing to the insurance industry.

  • Melissa Tiger- INSURICA
    • With 22 years of experience and being a recipient of 2004 Agent of the Year award from Travelers Insurance Company for Personal Lines, I am honored to be nominated for CSR of the Year. My dedication to the industry extends beyond routine tasks; I take pride in influencing the broader insurance landscape by caring for my insureds and providing unwavering support to colleagues. Over two decades of fostering relationships, I have become a trusted resource for my insureds. From my early days as an X-Date Cold Caller at Oklahoma Business Insurors Agency LLC to training new agents in personal lines with Oklahoma Business Insurors/Oklahoma Agents Alliance, my journey in 2014 shifted exclusively to commercial lines. Joining INSURICA in 2021 as a commercial lines senior account manager was a pivotal move, offering a vibrant environment with abundant growth opportunities. Specializing in commercial insurance for large and complex accounts, including construction, property, and auto, I find joy not only in professional accomplishments but also in spending time with family, pursuing outdoor gardening, shopping, and embracing the joys of everyday life. Gratitude fills my heart, especially this year, having triumphed over breast cancer. I am genuinely appreciative of the nomination and feel compelled to express the exceptional camaraderie within the INSURICA family. Working with these amazing individuals has been an enriching experience that I am eager to celebrate.
  • Polly Phillips- Omega Insurance
    • With 43 years of unwavering commitment at Omega Insurance Agency, Inc., I proudly hold the designations of CISR (Certified Insurance Service Representative) since 2000 and CIC (Certified Insurance Counselor) since 2010—a testament to my dedication and expertise in the field. Embodying the agency's values, I take immense pride in assisting individuals with their insurance needs, consistently going the extra mile to ensure our customers feel genuinely appreciated. My journey in the insurance industry began in 1980, initially in the Life Insurance sector, and in 1997, I joined Omega Insurance Agency, initially in Personal Lines before progressing to the intricacies of Commercial Lines. Beyond my professional pursuits, I find joy in traveling with my husband and creating cherished moments with my grandchildren. This nomination serves as a celebration of my enduring commitment to excellence in the insurance realm, and I am honored to be considered for this award.
  • Kathy Randall- Sterling Management Group
  • Jasmin Mayorga- INSURICA

 

Underwriter of the Year-

  • Ashlea Bearden- Mid-Continent Group

With 12 years of dedicated experience in the insurance industry, I am honored to be considered for this award. Armed with a BBA in Marketing from Pittsburg State University, I "fell into" the industry in 2012, where I initially spent three years handling auto and homeowners claims. Over the years, I have accumulated a wealth of knowledge and expertise, earning several professional designations, including CPCU, ARM, AU, AIC-M, API, AINS, AIM, and AIS. My commitment to the industry extends beyond my role as a Production Underwriting Supervisor on the Xpro Team at Mid-Continent; I've also served on the NEOK CPCU board for five years. Passionate about portraying insurance as a dynamic and stable career with diverse paths, I actively advocate for and educate the younger generation on industry topics and career choices. In my current role, I specialize in program business, focusing on commercial builders, underground storage tank pollution, and various sectors in oil, gas, and construction. Building meaningful relationships with our agents and becoming a trusted partner for them is my priority. Beyond my professional life, I find joy in traveling, golfing, and cherishing moments with my husband and our very energetic toddler. I am genuinely grateful for the recognition and excited to continue contributing to the industry I am so passionate about.

  • Jolee Braford- Summit
    • In my two decades dedicated to the insurance industry, I am incredibly honored and humbled to be considered for this award. My journey began as an x-dater for State Farm in the 90s during high school, evolving into a rewarding career starting with State Farm personal lines underwriting in 2012. Notably, I have garnered a Platinum Award, the highest recognition from my peers at Compsource, for my outstanding achievements, including binding the largest premium for a private insured during my tenure. I take pride in my role in Summit's transformation from its inception with no book of business to a thriving carrier and formidable competitor in the workers' compensation arena. Throughout my career, I've cherished building relationships within the industry, serving as a knowledge base for workers' compensation, and extending assistance to clients I've formed friendships with. Outside of my professional expertise in Workers' Compensation, I am deeply committed to serving at my church's nursery and prioritizing my family, including my five teenage boys, two grandchildren, and one on the way. Family always takes precedence, and beyond my work, I devote my time and energy to them. I am sincerely grateful for the recognition, acknowledging that I work alongside an amazing group of people, and I genuinely love what I do.
  • Stacey Thomas- One General Agency (OGA)

 

 

Marketing Representative of the Year

  • Traci Madole- Liberty Mutual

With over 32 years of rich experience in the insurance industry, I am deeply honored to be considered for this award. Holding prestigious designations including CIC, CRM, AFIS, and CRIS, I am committed to fostering strong partnerships with our agents, believing it to be a key element for success. My passion lies in assisting others, whether it's helping them understand coverage needs, advancing their careers through education, or simply spreading a little happiness. Having worked on both the carrier and agency side, I bring a comprehensive understanding to my role, aiding both agents and underwriters alike. As an advocate for women in leadership, I am dedicated to empowering women to recognize their self-worth and potential, while also mentoring newcomers to the industry. Giving back to the community is integral to my values, as I actively support local chapters of organizations like the Susan G Komen Foundation, Go Red for Women, and ALS. Outside of work, my husband and I reside in Norman with our two beloved puppies, enjoying college sports as season ticket holders for OU football, women's basketball, gymnastics, and softball. We cherish moments of leisure through golf, travel to wine country or the beach, and embrace the fine arts. I am truly grateful for this nomination, which reflects the dedication and values I bring to the insurance industry each day. Thank you for considering me for this esteemed award.

  • Kennetha Caldwell- Summit

With 43 years of dedicated experience in the insurance industry, I am deeply honored to be nominated for this prestigious award. Throughout my illustrious career, which began in 1981 with St. Paul Insurance Company, I have held various roles spanning both the company and agency sides. From CL Account Manager to Sales Manager and Personal Lines Territory Manager for Safeco for over 14 years, I have garnered invaluable expertise and insights. As the current Sr. Business Developer with Summit for 2 1/2 years, I take immense pride in being the liaison between the company and the agency, assisting agents in growing their book of business and providing unwavering support whenever needed. My extensive list of accolades, including being named Territory Manager of the Year in 2015 and receiving the Ace Award in 2013, alongside my CIC, ACSR, and AINS designations, underscores my commitment to excellence in the field. Currently, my focus lies on Monoline Workers Compensation. Beyond my professional endeavors, I find solace in spending time on the ranch with our longhorns, engaging in computer games with my beloved grandkids, and simply unwinding. Once again, I am sincerely grateful for this nomination and extend my heartfelt thanks for the recognition.

  • Nancy Lyons- SAFECO

With 23 years of enriching experience in the insurance industry, I am both thrilled and honored to be considered for this award. Holding the prestigious CIC designation, I have dedicated the past two years to working collaboratively with my colleagues to organize impactful agency events that support local communities. These initiatives have directly benefited nursing homes, a foster care community, and a critical care organization for children in three different parts of the state. Leveraging my accumulated knowledge and expertise, I've actively contributed to training and mentoring a new generation of agents while maintaining strong connections with my legacy agents. As a Personal Lines-focused Senior Territory Manager at Safeco for the past 17 1/2 years, I continuously seek innovative ideas to foster the growth and marketing success of my agents. My journey in the industry began as a customer service rep for a small regional carrier, progressing through roles in underwriting and marketing. An avid reader, cat mom, and enthusiast of jigsaw puzzles, I currently have over 20 completed puzzles awaiting new homes. I am truly grateful for this nomination, and I look forward to continuing my contributions to the insurance industry. Thank you for considering me for this esteemed award.

  • Eric Callaham- Mid-Continent Group

 

Agency Management Staff Member of the Year

  • Travis Biggert- HUB International
  • Shawn Warren- Unity
    • With 48 years of experience in the insurance industry and holding both CISR and CIC designations, I am truly honored to be considered for the Agency Staff Member of the Year award. Throughout my extensive career, I have been committed to breaking barriers and proving that women can excel in any role within our industry. My influence extends through the individuals I have trained and the knowledge and experience I continue to share. Having worked in various positions at both the company and agency levels, I have gained invaluable insights that only come with years of hands-on experience. I find great joy in the agency side of the business, where direct interaction with customers allows me to share my expertise and contribute to protecting their businesses, assets, and employees. Specializing in construction accounts, contractors, and bonding, I've also worked with diverse sectors such as schools, transportation, and technology. Education is a cornerstone of my approach, emphasized by my CISR and CIC designations, as I believe it is crucial in our ever-evolving industry. Beyond my professional endeavors, my love for sports, especially football and baseball, as well as my passion for reading and exploring new places, enrich my life. I am sincerely grateful for the consideration for this award.
  • Michelle Holroyd- Premier Insurance
    • With 18 years of dedicated service at Premier Insurance, I assumed the role of agency manager with a primary focus on maintaining strong relationships with both clients and insurance representatives. My commitment to transparent communication ensures that valuable information from our representatives is seamlessly conveyed to our agency, with timely follow-up information reciprocated. Throughout my 18-year tenure in the industry, I have excelled as an agent, specializing in property and casualty insurance, and for the past 15 years, I have written new business for one of our agency owners. Two years ago, I expanded my responsibilities by taking on the role of Agency Manager, where I continue to actively engage as an agent while also facilitating various agency needs. My expertise encompasses writing property and casualty insurance, conducting thorough policy reviews with clients, managing customer service representatives, and assisting with daily agency operations. Beyond my professional commitments, I find joy in attending college sporting events, concerts, and spending cherished moments with my family, including my five adult children and two grandchildren. I am truly honored by this nomination.
  • Brandi Akbaran- INSURICA
    • In my four years of experience in insurance marketing, I am thrilled to highlight our team's achievement of three awards from the Insurance Marketing and Communications Association (IMCA) in the Promotional Video and Annual Report categories over the past two years. In 2023, I proactively pursued a deeper understanding of insurance and digital marketing fundamentals by completing an insurance basics course offered through IMCA and The National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research. Additionally, I earned the Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) credential from the Digital Marketing Institute. This year, my focus has shifted towards providing valuable insurance marketing education tips and resources, particularly for INSURICA colleagues and producers, irrespective of their experience level. I take pride in supporting colleagues as they navigate the competitive business landscape, ensuring they feel confident in their interactions with INSURICA's clients and prospects. My passion extends to empowering women in the industry to find their voice. With a background in graphic communications, branding, and advertising management, I transitioned into marketing after a layoff as a single parent in 2019, seizing the opportunity at INSURICA in January 2020. Despite the challenges, I embraced the chance to start over and was appointed as Marketing Communications Manager in the spring of 2022. Over the past two years, I have focused on modernizing the marketing department, introducing new standards and procedures to enhance workflow efficiency. In collaboration with Andy Paden, Vice President of Marketing at INSURICA, I am honored to co-lead a team of talented communications professionals.  Outside of work, I find joy in spending time with my daughter, indulging in music, and seeking creative inspiration at garage sales, flea markets, and art festivals. I am sincerely humbled and honored to be nominated for such a prestigious award.

 

Small Agency of the Year

  • Covenant Insurance
  • Extra Mile Insurance
    • Founded in 2019 by Niki Henley, Extra Mile Insurance Solutions quickly set a new standard for Oklahoma's independent agencies by integrating cutting-edge technology to elevate customer experiences. Distinguished by our tech-forward approach, including virtual assistants and automated workflows, we specialize in personalized insurance policies, particularly for real estate transactions, and excel in supporting local small businesses. Our commitment to customer education and treating clients like family underscores our mission: to provide service beyond expectations, ensuring every policy is as unique as our clients. Extra Mile Insurance Solutions embodies innovation and excellence, demonstrating what insurance should always be about—customized solutions, advanced technology, and an unwavering commitment to our community.
  • The Kimberlee Agency, LLC
    • After 19 years as a producer with a captive company, I knew I wanted to go independent.  I opened my independent agency in May of 2019 and by my 3rd year, my agency had grown to over 1,000,000.00 in total premium. I now have 2 producers in the agency with me and we're an all-female, ran and owned, agency.    We pride ourselves on working hard for each customer and their individual needs and giving them the top quality service that they deserve.  We are blessed!

Medium Agency of the Year

  • Santa Fe Agency
    • Santa Fe Agency was established in 1991. We are located in McAlester currently servicing Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Louisiana, Montana, and South Dakota. Relationship is central to our service model. We pride ourselves on service and the education of the products we offer our clients. We are Santa Fe Agency “Where Insurance Makes A Difference.”
  • Omega Insurance
  • Aarvin Insurance- Aarvin Insurance Services was established in 2013 by the Espinoza Family with the mission to serve a diverse range of customer demographics. Since then, Aarvin has expanded to serve the community in demand for Business Insurance. Specific industries include construction, transportation, and hospitality. In our short history that spans just over a decade, our family agency has grown and set roots in Oklahoma City.  Our operation includes 4 locations in the metro with over 22 employees. At Aarvin Insurance we uphold 4 principles that dictate how we operate truly as a TEAM:  Trust, Efficiency, Accessibility and Morality.
  • Cornerstone Insurance Group
  • Sterling Management Group

 

Large Agency of the Year

  • INSURICA
    • Placing over $1 billion in annual premiums for our clients, INSURICA is among the 50 largest insurance brokers in the United States and is currently the 29th largest privately-held independent agency in the country. INSURICA employs more than 700 colleagues in 35+ offices located throughout Oklahoma, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi and Texas. We are constantly looking to expand our network with partners who bring additional value and expertise to the enterprise and our clients. Our focus on finding quality and experienced partners, coupled with the resources of Assurex Global positions INSURICA as one of the preeminent insurance brokerages in the country and further emphasizes our customer pledge that we “Specialize in You.”
  • Tedford Insurance & Associates
    • Since its establishment in 1978 by George and Kay Tedford, our company has been dedicated to delivering comprehensive insurance coverage to the hardworking individuals and businesses within our community. From our humble beginnings with a team of two, Tedford Insurance has flourished into a thriving enterprise, boasting over 60 diligent associates across seven offices strategically located in Jenks, Claremore, Muskogee, Drumright, Chandler, McAlester, Vinita and Oklahoma City. Our expansion across the state of Oklahoma underscores our commitment to staying abreast of the ever-evolving insurance landscape while maintaining a personal touch that ensures the security of our clients' assets. At the heart of our success lies our exceptional staff, whose expertise and dedication serve as the bedrock of our operations. Continuously vigilant to industry advancements, our well-educated team possesses the knowledge and passion necessary to address the diverse insurance needs of our clientele, be it in the realms of commercial property and casualty, employee benefits, contract bonds, or personal property and casualty. Central to our ethos is the cultivation of strong relationships with our clients and our agency partners. We take pride in understanding their unique requirements and crafting tailored insurance programs that stand the test of time. Through transparent communication and unwavering commitment, we forge bonds of trust that serve as the cornerstone of our partnerships. At Tedford Insurance, superior service is not merely a goal but a commitment. Our dedication to prioritizing customer satisfaction ensures that every client receives the utmost attention and care. With meticulous attention to detail and a steadfast dedication to our clients' well-being, we have distinguished ourselves as a beacon of excellence within the insurance industry.
  • Glenn Harris & Associates

Glenn Harris & Associates is an independent insurance agency founded in 1987 and located in Oklahoma City. We are a family-owned business, and we’ve been serving clients for over 37 years. Our commitment to unparalleled customer service and care sets us apart. As an independent agency, we represent multiple insurance companies, allowing us to tailor coverage to our clients’ specific needs. Whether it’s homeowners’ insurance, auto insurance, or other personal and commercial coverages, Glenn Harris & Associates strives to provide the best level of service, price, and coverage for their valued clients.

 

Brokerage of the Year

  • Graham Rogers
    • Formed in 1967, Graham-Rogers Insurance is a managing general agent/wholesaler headquartered in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. Our primary areas of operation include Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas. With accuracy, quick response time, innovation, and teamwork as hallmarks, we specialize in transportation, commercial excess and surplus lines, E&S personal lines, Standard Lines Services Commercial, and Standard Lines Services Personal Lines.Our experienced, energetic staff is committed to offering solutions for insurance needs—accessing both standard and excess and surplus lines carriers. Graham-Rogers Insurance is a proud member of the Bridge Specialty Group. #GoWithExperience #YourRisksOurReach
  • One General Agency
    • Since 1951, OGA has been an independently owned Oklahoma-based MGA. Their excellent reputation has been built on strong relationships and trust. OGA strives to be a strategic partner for the agencies they serve, operating on the principle that transactions are temporary, but trust is timeless. OGA is growing, adding several experienced underwriters and additional markets to increase its capabilities. They specialize in Garage, Cannabis, Professional Lines, Standard Lines, Energy & Excess, and Commercial Auto. With offices in Oklahoma City and Fayetteville, AR, and a large remote workforce, OGA boasts 78 wonderful employees committed to exceptional service, doing the right thing, and putting people first.

 

Company of the Year

  • Travelers Insurance
    • Travelers history spans over 165+ years and has earned a reputation as one of the best property casualty insurers in the industry. Our success is rooted in the dedication of our employees and agency partners, who take great care in delivering on the Travelers Promise every day – taking care of our mutual customers, communities and each other. Our expertise and focus on innovation has made Travelers a leader in Personal, Business, and Bond & Specialty Insurance. Every day, our approximately 30,0000 employees and 13,500 independent agents and brokers help provide peace of mind to our customers. Through these collaborative partnerships, we protect the things that matter most. Travelers is honored to have been nominated for company of the year – it’s a testament to our team and agency partners that work seamlessly together every day in the great state of Oklahoma.
  • Mercury Insurance
  • EMC Insurance
    • EMC Insurance Companies is in the top 60 property/casualty organizations in the United States and is one of the largest in Iowa, based on net written premium. Founded in 1911, EMC Insurance Companies is financially solid. We have been serving our policyholders and independent agents for more than 110 years, and we plan on continuing to serve them for 110 more. Today, EMC employs approximately 2,200 employees in about 40 states across the country. EMC sells its products solely through independent insurance agencies in more than 40 states. We believe our partnership with independent agents brings a superior level of personalized service to the insurance process.
  • Union Standard
    • Union Standard Insurance Group, as a proud member of the W.R. Berkley Corporation, stands as a beacon of excellence and innovation in the insurance sector. Our foundational principles, encapsulated in the acronym C.A.R.I.N.G. (Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, Integrity, Nurturing Growth, and Generosity), that drives our mission to deliver unparalleled service and tailored solutions that address the unique needs of our Agency partners and their clients. With a strategic focus on industries such as Construction, Manufacturing, Retail, Service, and Wholesale Trades, we leverage our regional expertise and local presence to foster meaningful relationships and provide responsive underwriting processes. Our commitment to efficiency and reliability is evidenced by our performance metrics, such as delivering 92% of quotes before our agents' need-by-date in 2023, which underscores our dedication to meeting and exceeding the expectations of our partners. Union Standard's journey, marked by a steadfast commitment to excellence and a forward-looking approach, is poised to continue leading the way in serving our communities with integrity and care.