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. 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.
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