Tell us about yourself as a professional. Do you have a special interest or area of expertise, unusual background or experience, or a topic or skill you’re working to get better at?
Some serendipitously find themselves working within the insurance industry. I was different. I, apparently, set my sights on the industry at the age of 8 when I told my dad that I would one day like to be his boss. Fast forwarding decades later, I now work with my dad in the country's oldest family-owned independent Auto-Owners agency. I am a fourth generation independent agent.

It just so happens that I actually enjoy the industry, even if not yet my dad's boss. I enjoy learning all the new, non-insurance things that one learns when trying to frontline underwrite a risk. I especially enjoy being part of the team that helps people get their life back after life's worst events.
 

Though people often don't realize it, the insurance industry is critical to economic and social stability. It is also the foundation that allows people the confidence to take on risk and create something extraordinary, whether its the Empire State Building or a regional food bank. In short, very little drives the economy, businesses, and families forward with confidence like having insurance can and does.
 

I love being a husband and father. Time spent with family (preferably outside) is time well spent for me. My family and I enjoy doing a large variety of activities such as waterskiing, windsurfing, traveling, fishing, or just reading a good book.
 

The best thing about a CPCU Society Member is the knowledge gained.
   
 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/zachery-phillips-3a156523/        

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Tell us about yourself as a professional. Do you have a special interest or area of expertise, unusual background or experience, or a topic or skill you’re working to get better at?
I've been with the Anaheim Ducks organization for 10 years, starting as a Zamboni driver. In my 5th year as a Risk Management professional, I'm looking forward to honing my skills for incident response and investigation.

I love my company and the sport of hockey, promoting the best Risk Management practices is fun and enjoyable.
 

Besides hockey, I enjoy golf, chess, fishing, and volunteering.
 

The best thing about being a CPCU Society Member is knowing that I have a strong network and all the right resources I need to succeed in my profession while also growing as a CPCU with mentorship programs, podcasts, webinars, and event opportunities!
   
 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alexfawwaz/         

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Tell us about yourself as a professional. Do you have a special interest or area of expertise, unusual background or experience, or a topic or skill you’re working to get better at?
I’ve had the privilege of working in the workers’ compensation underwriting field since 1990, and I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible evolution of our industry. When I first entered the workforce, the insurance industry was traditionally male-dominated, and I experienced a very different environment compared to today’s more inclusive and diverse landscape.

In my first insurance role, the dress code for men was to wear white dress shirts. The reasoning behind this was that it allowed the focus to remain on the conversation and not on what someone was wearing. Interestingly, women had more freedom in their attire choices, but I believed in the importance of being taken seriously, just as my male colleagues were. So, I decided to wear white blouses every day, ensuring my focus was always on the work at hand.

Since those early days, I've accomplished a great deal, including earning my CPCU designation, which was an important milestone in my career. Beyond personal achievements, I am passionate about encouraging young people to consider careers in insurance. I’m especially proud that all three of my sons have either worked in or contributed to the industry, which only reinforces my commitment to the field and my role as a mentor to the next generation.

The insurance industry has come a long way, and I am excited to continue being a part of its growth and transformation. I look forward to connecting with others who are passionate about shaping the future of this vital industry.
 

Working in insurance, at its core, is about helping people. Whether it’s ensuring financial security after an accident or providing peace of mind in times of uncertainty, the role we play is vital to individuals, families, and businesses. When I encourage young people to consider a career in insurance, I emphasize this simple but powerful truth: If you enjoy helping others, you’ll find fulfillment in the insurance industry.

Insurance offers a unique opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives, and it’s a rewarding career path for those who want to contribute to the well-being of others while growing professionally. It’s not just about policies and numbers; it’s about being there for someone when they need help the most. That’s why I’m proud to be a part of this industry and always encourage others to explore its many possibilities.
 

Outside of my professional life, I recently published a memoir on Amazon, Happily Ever Afterlife. This book is deeply personal—it explores the themes of motherhood, grief, and hope following the tragic loss of my son, AJ, in an auto accident. AJ was well-known in our local insurance community, often volunteering as the photographer at insurance events, and his presence is missed by so many.  Our San Diego chapter honors his legacy through the AJ Romero Memorial Volunteer Service Award.

Writing about losing him was one of the toughest challenges I’ve ever faced. However, I felt compelled to capture my thoughts and emotions in writing.  By sharing my journey, I hope to help others who are navigating similar pain. I’ve learned that through community, we heal together and find comfort in knowing we are not alone.

I hope that by sharing my story, others find strength in their own healing processes.
 

The greatest benefit of being a CPCU Society member is the people! The connections we form provide opportunities to learn and receive valuable support for our careers. Serving as a chapter leader or volunteer is an excellent way to develop leadership skills, especially when these types of opportunities are not available through our employers.
   
 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/janice-romero-8433a241          

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Tell us about yourself as a professional. Do you have a special interest or area of expertise, unusual background or experience, or a topic or skill you’re working to get better at?
As a professional, my journey in the insurance industry began by chance when I joined Allstate’s National Catastrophe Team as a homeowner’s adjuster right after Hurricane Katrina. This role was both challenging and rewarding, as it allowed me to help people in their time of need. Over the years, I expanded my expertise by moving into commercial and specialty markets and pursued a Master of Business Administration degree to further enhance my skills.

I have a special interest in claims handling and have worked in various capacities, including part-time roles with Third-Party Administrators (TPAs) to balance work and family life. This experience gave me a unique perspective on the industry, as I managed claims for multiple carriers with different best practices.

Currently, I am focused on delivering top-tier performance in an innovative environment at Skyward Specialty. I am passionate about working in a company that values employee empowerment and fosters a positive, inclusive culture. I am continually working to improve my skills and contribute to the success of my organization.
 

My passion for working in insurance and risk management stems from the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in people's lives during their times of need. Additionally, I enjoy the complexity and variety that comes with handling different types of claims, from homeowners to commercial and specialty markets. Each case presents unique challenges and learning opportunities, which keeps the work engaging and intellectually stimulating. Working in this field also allows me to continuously develop my skills and knowledge, whether through pursuing advanced degrees or adapting to new roles and responsibilities. At Skyward Specialty, I am particularly passionate about being part of an organization that values innovation, employee empowerment, and a positive, inclusive culture. This environment not only supports my professional growth but also aligns with my personal values, making my work both fulfilling and enjoyable.
 

I am a busy mom to 4 girls. My free time is usually filled with volleyball games and other kids activities. Outside of family I love to travel and play the piano.
 

I appreciate the networking and career development opportunities that being a CPCU Society member provides. I am a social person and being a member allows me the chance to meet new people and grow as an individual in my career.
   
 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-bennett-mba-cpcu-aic-5abbb057/         

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Tell us about yourself as a professional. Do you have a special interest or area of expertise, unusual background or experience, or a topic or skill you’re working to get better at?
I have been in the insurance industry for 6 years - all with Farmers Alliance, 2 years as an underwriter and 4 as an underwriting manager, responsible for farm and personal lines.  I was previously a vocal music teacher for 8 years.
 

No two risks are the same.  I enjoy finding unique solutions and working with people.  Insurance allows for me to engage my curiosity in figuring out ways to cover unique risks and help others discover new ideas and approaches that can help with unusual situations.
 

I enjoy singing and playing music.  I am involved in choirs, bands, and musical theatre productions as a performer and as a director.  As my kids are getting older, I've enjoyed having them join me on stage together in our shows.
 

The CPCU Society offers great opportunities to connect and learn!  None of us are smarter than all of us!
   
 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tim-cassidy-619a565b/         

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Tell us about yourself as a professional. Do you have a special interest or area of expertise, unusual background or experience, or a topic or skill you’re working to get better at?
Right after college, I worked briefly for a purchasing company as an international buyer, collaborating directly with suppliers from Southeast Asia and France. This experience made me realize my passion for working in a global, multicultural environment.

I began my career in the risk management field by joining a regional reinsurance company in North Africa, first as a management apprentice and later as a ceded reinsurance associate.

Currently, I am a reinsurance treaty underwriter in Everet’s international division, specifically within the Middle East and Africa department. Our team underwrites various lines of business and oversees a multi-hundred-million-dollar portfolio covering 16+ countries.
 

The risk industry is incredibly dynamic and serves as the cornerstone of all development. No matter your skill set, you’ll always find opportunities to contribute and enjoy your work. Besides, the insurance world constantly challenges me, providing intellectual stimulation and endless learning opportunities, with new questions and situations arising regularly. Best of all, the social impact of everything we do is truly rewarding.
 

I’m really passionate about financial education and empowering youth and vulnerable communities to make informed financial decisions. I co-founded « Segurta.tn », a non-profit initiative that aims to raise awareness about insurance culture in Tunisia and shed light on insurance-related issues, all in simple language. The project was recognized by Forbes in their 30 Under 30 list for 2023, the Middle East and North Africa edition.
 

Access to a vibrant community with diverse backgrounds and talents. The CPCU community is highly supportive, offering a ton of opportunities for both professional and personal growth.
   
 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-jenssen/        

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Tell us about yourself as a professional. Do you have a special interest or area of expertise, unusual background or experience, or a topic or skill you’re working to get better at?
I’m an enthusiastic insurance professional with a strong passion for leadership. Over the past 7 years, my involvement in Toastmasters has honed my skills in guiding and inspiring others, which I’ve further developed through 3 years of leadership in underwriting. I find great satisfaction in mentoring and watching my team members grow and enhance their skills. Seeing their progress and success is incredibly rewarding and fuels my commitment to continuous improvement and leadership development.

I’m passionate about working in insurance because it’s all about helping people when they need it most. Our job is to support individuals and businesses as they recover from losses and get back on their feet. It’s really fulfilling to know that what we do makes a big difference in tough situations, offering peace of mind and practical help when it’s needed the most.

Outside of work, I cherish the time I spend with my wife and son. We especially enjoy playing in the water together, whether it's at the beach or the pool, as well as kicking around a soccer ball. These activities not only strengthen our family bond but also bring us immense joy and relaxation. It’s these simple, shared moments that make our time together so meaningful and fulfilling.

In your opinion, what’s the best thing about being a CPCU Society member?
As a CPCU Society member, I enjoy a range of valuable benefits that significantly enhance my professional journey. One of the top advantages is the access to comprehensive professional development opportunities, including specialized training and industry workshops. Networking is another key benefit, as my membership connects me with a vast community of insurance and risk management professionals, facilitating valuable exchanges of knowledge and career advancement.
  
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-jenssen/       

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Tell us about yourself as a professional. Do you have a special interest or area of expertise, unusual background or experience, or a topic or skill you’re working to get better at?
I have been working in the industry for over a decade, starting off taking new claims reports and gradually working my way up in the contact center as an agent both via telephone and digital/chat support. My area of interest has always been Underwriting. In 2023, shortly after finishing my CPCU, I was hired into a rotational position in Auto Underwriting which turned into a permanent position. I like to think something that sets me apart with my background is working for Disneyland prior to entering insurance- what a career change, right? I have a unique view on customer service and always strive to bring positivity into my work. As I progress, I want to become more efficient with analyzing data and learning the ways of the future such as AI.

Insurance is such an important and critical part of our lives, yet so few know much about it. I have always taken it upon myself to educate others on what coverage is important and now that I have progressed into an Underwriting path, that mission becomes even more critical in understanding risk management. As our world changes, one thing remains constant: we always need that protection.

Outside of work, I spend almost all my time with my husband and two dogs, Vader and Abbott. I am very passionate about animal advocacy and volunteer as a photographer for local shelter dogs, as well as actively volunteer for a farm rescue. Ducks, cows, and goats make some of the greatest friends. I am also a huge fan of professional wrestling- it is my escape from reality and nothing makes me happier than attending a show live.
In your opinion, what’s the best thing about being a CPCU Society member? (OK, you may list
more than one thing!)

In your opinion, what’s the best thing about being a CPCU Society member?
The greatest thing about being a CPCU Society member is the amount of confidence it instills in you as a professional, as well as the network of people you get to meet. I fully believe without taking this path, my career would not have taken off as much as it has.
  
    

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Tell us about yourself as a professional. Do you have a special interest or area of expertise, unusual background or experience, or a topic or skill you’re working to get better at?
I moved to the insurance industry with a background in Physical Therapy/ Sports medicine, with that background I started as a claims adjuster for injuries arising out of car accidents. Since it was a career change for me, I felt I owed it to myself to learn more about insurance in order to be successful and create future opportunities for myself. I completed my first CPCU class within 3 months of joining the industry and didn't look back. After completing my designation, I moved to underwriting, working in Surety initially and then moving to middle market and then large monoline property. I was then presented with an opportunity to join Verisk as part of the commercial property team was very exciting for me. With the experience  I had gained, I could now be a part of helping carriers and brokers alike with their commercial property needs and issues at a time when property was becoming very challenging due to market pressures and inflation, not to mention the increase in catastrophe losses. I flourished in this role and now lead my own team in the Small Commercial space, helping customers with their business and property data needs.

Once I fully understood all the things that insurance brings to the community, it was easy to become passionate about advocating for a career in insurance. The carriers I worked at supported many local and national charities including the United Way and Toys for Tots to name a few. At Verisk, our community mitigation work is the benchmark for grading public fire protection, helping to build more resilient communities when loss events occur.

My main hobby outside of work is playing competitive darts, while I am certainly not the best player- the social aspect of the game is what I enjoy most. I am also the board VP of my local darting association.

In your opinion, what’s the best thing about being a CPCU Society member?
The best things about being a CPCU society member are staying current with industry news, I personally enjoy the articles in Insights, in addition to networking with other CPCUs that are passionate about the industry and continual learning. Getting my designation was one of the best things I have done professionally.
  
    

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Tell us about yourself as a professional. Do you have a special interest or area of expertise, unusual background or experience, or a topic or skill you’re working to get better at?
I specialize in Personal Insurance; specifically, High Net-Worth and Private Client Services. My areas of expertise are risk management, underwriting, and marketing. In addition to my CPCU and API designations, I am currently working on obtaining my ARM.

Why are you passionate about working in insurance and/or risk management?
I've learned early in my career that I was very good at my job. By combining that with passion, I wanted to continue to grow and further my education. In this industry, you are always learning, and I love that education will always be a top priority for me.

Family is extremely important to me. I try to spend as much quality time with my family as possible. We love to travel and explore new areas, try new foods, make new experiences, all together as a family.

In your opinion, what’s the best thing about being a CPCU Society member?
The best thing about being a CPCU society member is the ability to connect with fellow peers in the industry, having limitless resources that you wouldn't typically have, and to also be inspired by others and their journeys.

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