AUG
NOV
NOV
FEB
VOLUNTEER
S ct fun v nt for our m mb r
S ct v nu to ho t v nt
Organi down to th v ry a t d tai
Mak a p an of action & x cut Bring you fun in a r cr ationa nvirom nt
The Recreation Committee is the embodiment of FUN! Each year, we organize, host, and promote fun events giving our current and prospective members opportunities to fellowship and network. Our events include the Spring Golf Classic, Pickleball Tournament & Fall Golf. What are you waiting for, get recreational with us!
MEETING
COMMITTEES 2024 - 2025
are what breaths life into our association. With 9 active committees there are at least 100 people actively serving the association with their unique skills. We are always looking to put your skills to use, to further drive the association’s mission forward. No matter what your skills are, or what you are passionate about, we likely have something of interest to you. The end result is to better the industry we all serve. Join a Committee today and become part of the mission.
Charitable Projects/ Fire Poster Chairman: Kathryn Noser
Education, I.T., CE
Houston Insurance Day
Chairman: Matt Romano
Vice Chairman: Nancy Eugenio Vice Chairman: Carmen Swift
Legislative
Chairman: Kyle Dean
Vice Chairman: Wes Kurtz
IMPACT
Chairman: Wes Kurtz
Recreation
Chairman: Carisa Cole Vice Chairman: Steven Sprague
Young Insurance Professionals
Chairman: Macy Bennett
Vice Chairman: Grant Pierce
PR/Media Matters
Chairman: Scott West
Social Media
Chairman: Daphne Clark Vice Chairman: Cassie Shanks
Houston Insurance News
Chairman: Amy Weimer Vice Chairman: Cassie Shanks
ANNUAL SPONSORS
Titanium Elite Sponsors
Imperial PFS
Burns & Wilcox, Ltd.
CRC Group
Vintage Underwriters
Platinum Partners for Excellence
Brown & Riding
RT Specialty
Texas Mutual Insurance
WSG Specialty Underwriters
Gold Patron Sponsors
Chubb
Jencap
Travelers
UFG Insurance Company
WRIGHT Flood
New Agency Members
Stewart Solutions, LLC
New Affiliate Members
Genixo Construction
Jason Knecht
Susan Zipperer
Ryan Beavers
Angela Delap
David Wuthrich
Adam Harris
Chris Dowling
Tom Fitzpatrick
Chairman
Chairman Elect V
Chairman
Treasurer
Secretar y
Chairman
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Faith Boren
Sam Houston
Matt Leicht
Kathryn Noser
Robert Oncken
Jesse Serna
Keaton Sumicek
Wes Weatherred
STAFF
David Wuthrich
Renee Stager
Ayla Benavides
Deb McRae
July 31, 2025
I think that we are now officially in the “dog days” of summer! I hope that everyone is having a great summer and enjoying getting to spend time with your family!
First, I would like to thank all of those who participated in our Annual Charity bowl event. You guys raised a lot of money for charity, and you got to do it INDOORS and with lots to eat and drink! What a way to raise money for charity!! I heard that there were some pretty good costumes to go along with our theme. If you were not able to make it, please put it on your calendar for next July!
As the IIAH fiscal year comes to an end in August, I would just like to thank everyone for another great year! I can’t believe that I have already been in my position for six years, it feels like I started yesterday! I would like to thank all of you who served on boards and committees this year. It is because of you and your hard work that we are able to do what we do. Two people in particular, I would like to thank Outgoing Immediate Past Chairman Adam Harris for his seven years of service to IIAH. It has been a great run my friend! And to Outgoing Chairman Jason Knecht, thank you for your leadership this year. You have one more year to go, so keep those ideas coming!
I know that our fiscal year 2025-2026 will continue to be great with Susan Zipperer assuming the role as Chairman. Please help me welcome her to this new role!
Have a great rest of the summer and hope to see everyone soon!
CHARITABLE BENEFACTOR
“To empower children and families through literacy and life skills.”
Literacy Now (originally known as Making It Better) was founded in 2006 with a vision to help children rise above their circumstances through tutoring, mentoring, and other services.
Since its founding, our organization has grown from serving one school with 91 students to serving 2,500 children and their parents on 16 Houston and 4 Aldine ISD Title I elementary campuses and in multiple low-income community sites during the 2022-2023 school year. Literacy Now has empowered more than 24,000 children and their parents, and our impact continues to grow.
AFFILIATE SPOTLIGHT
QuoteWell is a wholesaler built for speed, transparency, and results. Headquartered in Austin and rapidly expanding into key markets like Houston, we specialize in placing complex risks across Commercial Property, Construction, Manufacturing, Energy, and more.
We seek to streamline the quoting process and give agents real-time access to submissions, status tracking, and easier intake supported by AI. We have a robust panel of brokerage markets and a binding authority division offering access to top carriers and competitive solutions for even the toughest-to-place accounts.
From All Risk Property and Catastrophic Coverage to Inland Marine, Motor Truck Cargo, and DIC, our appetite spans a wide range of industries including Multi-Family, Hospitality, Healthcare, Self-Storage, Manufacturing, Auto Dealers, and Institutional risks.
At QuoteWell, we provide strategic solutions and industry expertise. Our inhouse software engineers are embedded directly into our operations ensuring we’re building software that delivers on our promise of making the wholesaler experience faster and more efficient. Our mission is to help agents grow their business while eliminating unnecessary friction at every step.
CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE
Jason R. Knecht
jason.knecht@carrollins.com
As we turn the corner into the second half of the year, it’s hard to believe how quickly 2025 is moving. Summer is in full swing, and before we know it, we’ll be talking Q4 strategy and holiday plans. But let’s pause for a moment and remember: while the first half may be behind us, the second half still lies ahead—and with it, plenty of opportunity.
Maybe you set some ambitious goals back in January. Maybe your New Year’s resolutions have gathered a little dust. That’s okay. Now’s the perfect time to reset, refocus, and reenergize. There’s still time to push through unfinished plans, rally your team, and make this year one to remember—for yourself, your agency, and our industry.
Let’s keep showing up for each other, for our clients, and for the Houston insurance community. We’ve got six more months to leave our mark on 2025—let’s make them count.
With gratitude and momentum,
Billiards Ping Pong
Cornhole Virtual Darts Simulation Bay
$20 for Registration Games + (2) Drinks + Food
The Importance of E&O Insurance for Insurance Agencies
In the competitive world of insurance, agencies often face unique challenges that can significantly impact their operations and reputation. Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance may represent a crucial safeguard for these agencies. This coverage is designed to financially protect against many common claims and allegations potentially arising from insurance agencies’ activities.
Coverage Against Legal Claims
Small insurance agencies often operate with limited resources and staff, possibly increasing the likelihood of human error. E&O can act as a financial safety net in the event of legal claims stemming from alleged mistakes or oversights. For instance, if an agent fails to properly explain policy details or misses a critical deadline, the agency could face costly lawsuits. E&O insurance can cover legal defense costs and settlements, helping to secure the agency’s financial stability.
Enhancing Credibility and Trust
Having E&O insurance can help demonstrate a commitment to professionalism and accountability. Clients are often more likely to trust an agency that has taken steps to financially protect their interests. This trust can translate into long-term client relationships and positive word-of-mouth referrals, which may be vital for the growth and stability of small agencies.
Compliance With Industry Standards
Insurance agencies may sometimes be required to carry E&O insurance as part of their licensing requirements. Compliance with these regulations can help avoid penalties and position the agency as a credible and responsible entity within the industry.
Safeguarding Reputation
A single lawsuit can tarnish the reputation of a small insurance agency, making it difficult to attract new clients. E&O insurance can mitigate the impact of such incidents, allowing the agency to defend itself from allegations, maintain its reputation and continue operations without significant disruption or losses.
Sign up
4:30 – 9:00 PM
Venue Sponsor
Drink Sponsor Bag Sponsor
STRAIGHT LISTING
Name, Address, Phone, Contact Email
FULL LISTING
Name, Address, Phone, Contact Email, and website address
PLATINUM LISTING
Name, Address, Phone, Contact Email, website address, and unlimited lines of business
PACKAGE LISTING
Name, Address, Phone, Contact Email, website address, unlimited lines of business, and company logo on the Calendar of Event page of IIAH site
Light , Camera, o l! — An Afternoon of Action and Impact IIAH turned out in full co tume , cheer , and bo ling for the 2025 Annual Charity o l, a blockbu ter afternoon of fun, fundrai ing, and fierce (but friendly) competition. Thi year’ movie-themed event, Light , Camera, o l, brought energy and enthu ia m to the lane , all in upport of local cau e that make a real difference in our community.
With 27 team in action and an incredible ho ing from our charitable partner , the event rai ed over $ 0,000 for three beloved Hou ton nonprofit Literacy No
Dreamcatcher Stable
IG Love Cancer Care
From pop orn-themed ostumes to Os ar-worth team spirit, the afternoon was filled with unforgettable moments. Here’s a round of applause for this ear’s standout performers Award Winners
est Overall S ore Hot hkiss Insuran e
est Movie Theme
1st Pla e: rown & rown, In 2nd Pla e: Vintage Underwriters
Most Spirit Award
1st Pla e: Carroll Insuran e Agen
2nd Pla e: XPT Spe ialty
Top Fundraising Team Risk Pla ement Servi es
None of this would be possible without the bowlers, sponsors, volunteers, and generous supporters who brought this event to life. Your ommitment to ommunit and harit ontinues to inspire us.
Mark our alendars we’ll be rolling into 2026 with even more ex itement, purpose, and (of ourse) plent of strikes. Until then, thank ou for helping us support these in redible organizations and shine a spotlight on giving ba
Keaton Sumicek welcomes daughter!
Keaton and his family welcomed Baby Ellie on June 14th! She arrived healthy and perfect, weighing 6 lbs. 6 oz.
Both mom and baby are doing well, and Keaton is enjoying this special time with his growing family.
Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence: Legacy of Service and Innovation
In 1975, Doug Hotchkiss founded Hotchkiss Insurance with a vision to provide tailored, strategic insurance solutions that would protect businesses and their owners. Fast-forward to 2025, and Hotchkiss Insurance stands as one of the largest privately owned insurance agencies in Texas, celebrating an impressive 50 years of service. Through its commitment to innovation, expertise, and client-focused solutions, the company has earned a place among the Top 100 Property/Casualty Agencies in America. Today, Hotchkiss Insurance continues to be a trusted advisor to thousands of clients across diverse industries.
Adam Harris welcomes son!
Lincoln Jay Harris born on June 6, 2025 to Catherine and Adam Harris. 7 lbs 15 oz born healthy and with loud crying to show off his strong lungs.
Recognizing Growth: Congratulations to Our Newly Designated Professionals!
Jayme Hildebrand
CLCS Designation
Brandon Breed
CLCS Designation
Andrew Rohr
CIC Designation
Shelly Mueller
SBCS Designation
On the evening of July 24th, the energy was high and the connections were flowing as over 100 insurance professionals gathered at Kirby Ice House for a vibrant happy hour hosted by Young Insurance Professionals (YIPs) and the National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA).
The event was more than just a social gathering — it was a celebration of collaboration, diversity, and the future of the insurance industry. Attendees enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere filled with meaningful conversations, professional networking, and new friendships. The turnout reflected a growing interest in building a more inclusive, connected industry. This successful evening wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. A special thank-you goes out to:
Foo Sponsor:
McDa e Insurance Brokerage Group,
Happy Hour Sponsors: NFIB
Strategic Insurance A visors
Partnering with NAAIA for this event was an exciting step forward, and both organizations are looking ahead to more collaborative efforts that continue to uplift and unite insurance professionals from all backgrounds.
Cheers to an incredible night — and to the many more to come. Stay tuned for future events and opportunities to connect, grow, and celebrate this dynamic industry together.
Worried About Cybersecurity? Start with Password Management!
Cybersecurity is complex with many hardware, software, and training solutions needed to make your business secure. But all the best security solutions are useless without secure passwords. Let’s consider the humble password: Boring? Annoying? Ok, yes, but good passwords are the foundation of good security. Often, we work with businesses that have great security solutions, but they’ve put little effort into ensuring their employees are using strong passwords. What makes a good Password?
Length – Should be at least 12 characters but longer is better.
Complexity – Combine upper- and lower-case letters, numbers, and special characters.
Unique – Never use the same password with different apps.
Avoid Simple/Common Phrases - Especially if they relate to personal things about you. No Sharing - Never share your password with other employees.
Length Beats Complexity!
A long password using common words is more secure than a shorter, more complex password. For a strong password you can remember, we recommend using a passphrase with just a little complexity. Ex: “house!ocean2Drivecat”
You should never write down or store passwords in a file on your computer. Excel spreadsheets and Word documents simply are not secure enough for storing passwords. Use a Password Manager!
There’s a simple truth that we all must accept: It’s impossible to follow all the requirements for secure passwords without a Password Manager. While the built-in password managers on web browsers are better than nothing, a business needs a centrally managed password manager. Business grade password managers:
Help users create secure passwords.
Allows MFA/2FA codes to be stored which can lessens the need for authentication apps.
The system identifies bad passwords and they’re easy to change.
Users can share passwords as needed, and you can track access to shared passwords. Management access to all passwords for all users. Management can revoke employee access to passwords. And much more!
Strong passwords are essential to quality cybersecurity, but too often they’re overlooked simply because it’s hard or annoying to manage them properly. Neglecting passwords can undo all your efforts to implement effective security.
The good news is proper password management is inexpensive and can drastically increase the security of your business. Even better, your experience is improved by reducing the need to create and remember complex and unique passwords once you’re familiar with the manager.
We greatly appreciate the volunteers!
We extend our gratitude to the volunteers who joined us for Group Story Time at BakerRipley-Ripley House with the Literacy Now reading intervention students!
It was a joy to read a fun, summer-themed book with the kids and spend time creating sea bottles together. Your support is truly making a difference in the lives of these young readers—bringing joy, sparking creativity, and inspiring their young minds. We are deeply grateful for your time, dedication, and the positive impact you continue to make..
A special thank you to Literacy Now for your continued partnership in promoting literacy and education in our community.
Learn more about their impactful work at www.literacynowhouston.org Together, we’re empowering the next generation of readers and leaders.
A big thank you to the four amazing volunteers who helped at The Women’s Home Cottage Shop on Tuesday, July 29th. Your time sorting donated clothing made a real difference, and we’re so grateful for your support!
If you missed it, don’t worry—our next volunteer shift is on Thursday, August 21st. We’d love to have you join us!
Looking to support a great cause? We’d love your charity recommendations! If you know of a worthy organization that could use some attention, please email Ayla Comuyog at. Your suggestions could help make a real difference! ayla@iiah.org
William Marion Edmondson III
William Marion Edmondson, III 03/19/1947 - 07/06/2025
William Marion Edmondson III, lovingly known as "Bill" was born on the 19th of March 1947, in Dallas to William M. "Eddie" Edmondson Jr. and Marsha Strange Edmondson. He passed away surrounded by his beloved family on Tuesday, the 8th of July 2025.
Bill attended Kimball High School and North Texas State University. He began his career in the insurance industry with Continental Insurance in 1971 and spent the next fifty-six years building a remarkable legacy. Alongside his wife Becky, he founded Vintage Underwriters, where he served as both a leader and a mentor. Known for his integrity, insight, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Bill earned the respect and friendship of countless colleagues, employees, and clients throughout his career.
A devoted Houston Astros fan, Bill was a long-time season ticket holder who cheered faithfully from the stands. He was a certified Texas Master Naturalist who found joy in nature - whether gardening, fishing, or simply enjoying time outdoors at Jamaica Beach. Bill had a green thumb and could coax life from any plant. He was also an exceptional cook and gracious host who loved to gather friends and family around the table. No one ever left his home hungry - or thirsty.
Bill was passionate about travel and explored six continents, but his greatest adventures and deepest joys were always with his family.
He is survived by his beloved wife of forty-six years, Rebecca "Becky" Rucker Edmondson; his children, Jennifer, Mark (Vanessa), James, and Julie; and his cherished grandchildren, Connor, Kylee, Elissa, and William. He is also survived by his brother, Thomas "Tom" (Carol) Edmondson, and nieces Jann and Jill.
WHO HAS... THE LAST WORD
Cassie Shanks
Where do you work?
Hotchkiss Insurance
What sound do you love?
The sound of birds chirping
If you could paint a picture of any scenery, you’ve seen before, what would you paint?
I was taken back the first time I saw the grand canyon. I thought it was so cliché everyone said it would take your breath away and leave you speechless. Well, that is exactly what it did. I would paint that view and remember that feeling forever.
What was the first thing you bought with your own money?
Well this isn’t the first thing I bought but I do remember being 19 working at Hotchkiss and still living at home, and I bought the new 2006 Mustang. I thought I was the coolest person!
My fellow employees thought it would be funny to prank call me and have someone’s husband act like I was .82 cents short on my monthly payment and they moved my car and made me believe it was repossessed. Not cool.
If you could choose to stay a certain age forever, what age would it be?
35, life for the most part was figured out. My kids were at a fun age and pre-hormonal. Not rich enough to have mo’money mo’problems, but not broke… 35 would be it for me.
What did you do growing up that got you into trouble? I was a good kid, my mom made me believe that feeling you got in your stomach was the devil putting a mark on his scoreboard in his fight to win you in heaven vs hell.
What is something you learned in the last week?
How to make stickers from my photos on my iPhone.
Weirdest thing you have ever eaten?
Vomit flavored jelly bean in the Jelly Belly
BeanBoozled box.
What is your pet peeve in traffic?
That I am sitting IN traffic.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I can pop two of my knuckles out of socket and my two fingers go completely limp. Cool party trick.
What is your favorite flavor of jellybeans?
Not vomit flavored.
What is your LEAST favorite electronic device?
My electric toothbrush. I feel as though the results are worth the strange feeling. What is the longest car trip you have ever taken?
The drive home from my grandparents house in Farmington NM to Houston TX. Did it every summer as a kid one way. My mom would fly us there, but drive to come pick us up. Made zero sense.
Can vegetarians eat animal crackers?
Only with their eyes closed.
Ninjas or pirates?
Ninjas, what do Ninja’s drink, WA-TA!!!!
What was your favorite childhood television program?
SpongeBob Squarepants, what is my favorite adulthood television program? Spongebob Squarepants.
Are you a collector of anything?
Koozies but this is not intentional. But somehow I have a large collection of them.
At a movie theater, which arm rest is yours?
Ok funny thing… now in fancy movie theaters the arm rests can move up…. when a stranger sits next to me I like to pick up the arm rest to see how they react. Attempt with caution…
