Gerrond Volunteer of the Year Award

 

The Gerrond Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes volunteer leaders who embody the true spirit of a volunteer leader. Exemplary volunteer leaders with enthusiasm and passion for service who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, community engagement, and advocacy within the CPCU Society. This award is established in memory of Richard A. Gerrond, a respected instructor and dedicated member of the CPCU Society and his local Central Oklahoma Chapter, celebrating those who embody the spirit of volunteerism through their leadership, reliability, commitment and promotion of our CPCU Society mission and values.

This award highlights the invaluable contributions of individuals who consistently go the extra mile to make a difference. Their commitment to fostering strong ties to the CPCU Society community, dependability in fulfilling their responsibilities, and a passion for development of and to inspire growth in others to follow in their footsteps. The Gerrond Volunteer of the Year Award serves as an example of excellence, encouraging all members to engage deeply and meaningfully with the CPCU Society’s goals, initiatives and community.


Congratulations to our 2025 Gerrond Volunteer of the Year Award Recipient: Rena Strohmeier, CPCU, MBA, AIC-M, AINS

We are thrilled to announce Rena Strohmeier, CPCU, MBA, AIC-M, AINS as the 2025 recipient of the Gerrond Volunteer of the Year Award! With over 30 years’ experience, Rena has inspired others through her teaching, advanced women's leadership initiatives, and represented the Society on both national and international stages. Her dedication, inclusive approach, and unwavering commitment to our mission make her a true role model for all volunteers. Congratulations, Rena!

 

Award Criteria:

 
  1. Membership: Must be a current dues paying member of The Institutes CPCU Society.
  2. Leadership and Initiative: Demonstrates strong leadership and takes initiative in their role.
  3. Dependability and Reliability: Consistently dependable and reliable in fulfilling responsibilities.
  4. Visibility:Advocates for and promotes the mission and values of the CPCU Society.
  5. Commitment and Dedication:Shows consistent and sustained commitment over time.
  6. Collaboration and Teamwork:Fosters a spirit of teamwork and collaboration.
  7. Mentorship and Development:Actively mentors other volunteers and contributes to their development.
  8. Community Engagement:Actively engages with the broader CPCU Society community and builds relationships.

 

Nominations:

 

More information and nominations for the 2026 Gerrond Volunteer of the Year Award will be available in Spring 2026. Stay tuned!



The recipient of the award is selected by members of the Nominating Committee and announced annually each Fall at the In2Risk conference.

Past Award Recipients:

 

2024     Cindy Baroway, CPCU

2019     Jeff Bronaugh, CPCU

2018     Susan Golla, CPCU

2017     Michael Hurd, CPCU

2016     Lamont Boyd, CPCU

2015     Wade Sheeler, CPCU

2014     Tony Nix, CPCU

2013     Gregory Deimling, CPCU

2012     Jill McCook, CPCU

2011     Todd Popham, CPCU

2010     Laura M. Kelly, CPCU

2009     Millicent W. Workman, CPCU

2008     John W. Egan, CPCU

2007     Ernest E. Grecsek, CPCU

2006     Richard G. Rudolph, CPCU