VOLUNTEER
HOUSTON INSURANCE NEWS WHAT WE DO:
Organize and collect content for our bi-monthly digital magazine
Keep our membership up to date on current events and information in the industry
Spotlight and promote our members
Seek advertisers and support from the industry
A committee who loves to share news, the HIN Committee publishes our bi-monthly digital newsletter with rich content aimed at informing our members of upcoming & past events, educational & legislative information, industry updates, acknowledgment of achievements of people in the industry along with articles relevant to current topics. Make plans to join us at our next meeting. See you soon!
MEETING
Bi-monthly meetings @ 10:30 AM via ZOOM For more info contact, ayla@iiah.org
COMMITTEES 2025 - 2026
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
WRIGHT Flood
New Agency Members
Wellmann Insurance Agency Inc.
New Affiliate Members
Blitz Insurance Group
Susan Zipperer
Ryan Beavers
Angela Delap
Robert Oncken
Faith Boren
David Wuthrich
Jason Knecht
Chris Dowling
Tom Fitzpatrick
Chairman
Chairman Elect
Vice Chairman
Treasurer
Treasurer Elect
Secretary
Past Chairman
Affiliate Liaison
Affiliate Liaison
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Matthew Erskin
Sam Houston
Matt Leicht
Charles McDade
Kathryn Noser
William Peachey
Jesse Serna
Daniel Shearer
Keaton Sumicek
Wes Weatherred
Blake Wellmann
South & Western General Agency
STAFF
David Wuthrich
Renee Stager
Ayla Benavides
Deb McRae
President & CEO
Sr. Managing Director
Managing Director
Advertising/Membership
September 30, 2025
Fall is officially here, although in Houston in is hard to feel like fall is here when it is still 95 degrees outside. But we know that Fall is here because there are football games on TV and hunting season is just around the corner!
Here at IIAH, September means that we are starting another fiscal year, 2025-2026. It should be another exciting year for IIAH with many activities for our members to participate in and help out the community with our volunteer efforts! Please join us for Pickleball, Cornhole, Golf and Happy Hours in the coming months. I promise you that you will have a wonderful time at any event that you choice to attend.
I would like to take this time to welcome our newest board members: Matt Erskin with USI, Dan Shearer with Everest, Charles McDade with McDade Insurance Brokerage and Blake Wellmann with Wellmann Insurance. We look forward to having you serve on the IIAH Board of Directors! Thanks again to Adam Harris for his seven years of service to the Association as he rolls off the board! We will miss you but I know that you will still be in attendance at our events!
I would like to congratulate Susan Zipperer as our new IIAH Chairman. Susan has been a dedicated board member for many years and I look forward to seeing what exciting things she has in store for us in 2025-2026!
I would also like to congratulate Ayla Comuyog! Ayla has been promoted to Senior Managing Director. She has been with IIAH sine 2018 and has done a wonderful job during that time. We look forward to her assuming a bigger role within the Association!
I would also like to welcome a new staff member, Shelby Hibbard. Many of you know Shelby, as she worked for the IIAH before and during college. She has joined our team as a Managing Director, and we look forward to her new ideas to make our team better!
I hope to see you soon at one of the upcoming events!
The PTSD Foundation of America aims to bring hope and healing to veterans and their families suffering from the effects of combat-related post-traumatic stress. We are a 501(c)(3) organization that began as a grassroots effort in 2005 with a group of concerned volunteers who searched for homeless veterans on the streets of Houston with a vision and passion for drastically reducing the veteran suicide rate through programming and outreach services. In the past decade, 80,000 veterans were lost to suicide—20,000 more than the number of American soldiers killed in action in Vietnam. The Veterans Health Administration estimates that 44 veterans take their own lives daily. Through our dedication to the mission, we have successfully grown into a nationally recognized non-profit known for assisting combat veterans and their families with the complexities of post-traumatic stress, changing the trajectory of their lives, and transforming them into thriving and productive members of society.
AFFILIATE SPOTLIGHT
In the dynamic world of multifamily development, Genixo is a trusted partner, delivering high-quality, costeffective projects with a focus on safety, sustainability, and enduring value. Renowned for its expertise, precision, and leadership, Genixo has become a prominent name in multifamily construction, earning the confidence of developers, property managers, and insurance partners. The company specializes in student housing, senior living, new builds, maintenance, and mitigation services.
Leading Genixo Construction is President Richard Smith, a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in construction management and development. Richard founded the company in November 2022 with a vision to redefine industry standards through innovation and excellence. Under his guidance, Genixo has expanded from a local contractor to a national leader in multifamily construction, boasting a diverse portfolio that includes modern residential complexes, senior living facilities, and student housing developments.
Rsmith@genixoconstruction.com 713 - 574 - 6994
Richard’s hands-on leadership and expertise in project planning, compliance, and risk mitigation have been instrumental in Genixo’s continued success. He and the Genixo team collaborate closely with stakeholders to ensure projects meet rigorous safety standards, stay within budget, and are completed on time. Genixo Construction is comprised of highly skilled professionals dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, reliability, and excellence. Whether restoring historic buildings, performing repairs, or developing new projects from the ground up, Genixo delivers exceptional service with unwavering commitment.
Genixo Construction prioritizes quality, transparency, and client satisfaction in every project. As the demand for multifamily housing grows, Genixo is proud to shape the future of residential communities while revitalizing existing ones. Our projects are designed with both residents and owners in mind, utilizing durable construction practices to create spaces people are proud to call home—structures built to last for generations. With a strong focus on proactive risk management, Genixo conducts comprehensive safety training and regular jobsite audits to minimize liability, reduce insurance claims, and foster a culture of accountability.
At Genixo Construction, we firmly believe that the bedrock of thriving communities lies in unwavering support, inspiration, and meaningful contributions. Our dedication extends far beyond construction sites and project timelines— it’s about empowering the individuals and initiatives that foster growth and resilience in the areas we serve. We’re thrilled to have been steadfast supporters of local Little League teams, supplying essential resources that enable young athletes to cultivate vital skills like teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. Our commitment to the Milam County Ag Booster Club underscores our passion for agricultural education and the invaluable life lessons imparted through FFA and 4-H programs. Furthermore, Genixo Construction takes great pride in backing our nation’s veterans via the PTSD Foundation of America’s Camp Hope BBQ Cook-off. This impactful event generates vital funding for counseling, peer support, and a nurturing environment for combat veterans navigating post-traumatic stress—truly transforming and preserving lives.
From bustling ballparks to rural barns, from educational settings to veteran outreach efforts, Genixo Construction stands shoulder-to-shoulder with our communities. Together, we’re not merely erecting buildings; we’re forging a brighter, more resilient tomorrow for all.
CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE
Susan Zipperer
szipperer@efgia.com
It is a tremendous honor to be the 2025-2026 Chairman for this respected organization. I am both humbled and energized by the opportunity to serve an organization that has long stood at the forefront of supporting the insurance industry. First, I would like to thank my predecessor, Jason Knecht, whose leadership and commitment have been instrumental in IIAH’s centennial year.
As we enter this next year, our focus remains clear: to support the growth and integrity of the insurance profession while giving back to the local communities we serve. This year, I am pleased to share that our fundraising efforts will support three outstanding charitable organizations: Camp Hope, Covenant House, and Child Advocates. In addition to fundraising, there will be many opportunities throughout the year to volunteer with organizations such as CAPS, Hope Lodge, Kids Meals, Veterans Memorial Cleanup and many more.
In addition to our commitment to service, IIAH will have several networking opportunities throughout the year. From HID to informal meetups and charity events, these networking opportunities will allow us to not only learn from one another and strengthen the bonds that connect us as an industry but provide team building and comradery. Our success is not only measured by the work we do for our clients but also by the impact we have on society. Together, we can be a force for good, inspiring others to lead with purpose and compassion.
Thank you for the trust you have placed in me. I look forward to collaborating with you all as we advance the mission of IIAH together.
IIAH Chairman 2025-2026 Susan Zipperer
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1.)First Dollar Defense’ is also known as a Loss Only Deductible
First Dollar Defense (FDD) is one of the best ways to pay no upfront expenses if you have an E&O claim. You would only pay your deductible in the event the carrier paid damages on your behalf. With FDD, if a claim is dismissed or they defend you and you win, no deductible would be due. FDD is also known as a “Loss Only Deductible”. The deductible applies to loss only. Without FDD, your deductible applies to Loss and Expense. The deductible is due for out-of-pocket costs, loss, and / or legal fees, up to your deductible limit, even if your E&O carrier wins and the court finds you not at fault. FDD is broader coverage.
2.)Defense Outside the Limits’ will reduce your limit of liability to defend or investigate a claim
Defense Outside the Limits “DOL” is the best way to make sure that legal defense expenses do not erode the Limits of Liability of the policy.Some policies have this language built into the policy form and some endorse the coverage. Defense Outside the Limits is also known as Claims Expenses Outside the Limit. Without DOL, Defense Costs are within the Limits of Liability. DOL is broader coverage.
3.)Your ‘Retroactive Date’ refreshes every year
Limits of Liability refresh when renewing coverage. Your Retroactive Date should not change year to year. Your Retroactive Date also known as a Prior acts date’ is a date that reflects how long you have had continuous E&O coverage with no lapse. Since E&O policies are Claims Made and Reported policies the Retroactive Date or Prior acts date should be the date that defines how far back a loss can occur for your policy to cover a claim. Expectations are a Retro Date would be the first date a business started offering services. This date may also be the date a business purchased their first E&O claims made policy. Claims Made policies have a retroactive date to provide protection for claims / wrongful acts made back to the retroactive date on your policy. Changing this date can lead to gaps in coverage and uncovered claims. A common thought with customers is they do not need retro date coverage. Common statements include : “ to much time has elapsed & the statute of limitations has run out. The truth is removing retro date coverage and moving to an inception date coverage may save money today, but an insured can jeopardize the premium already invested in their business by having an uncovered claim.
4.)ERP or Extending Reporting Period’ endorsement is also referred to as ‘Tail Coverage’
ERP’s or Tail coverage is a feature found in a claims-made policy, but most carriers define the coverage as an “Extended Reporting Period or Extended Discovery Period”. This coverage allows the insured to purchase an endorsement which extends the time in which claims can be reported to the insurance company after they sold or closed their business. The ERP endorsement allows claims to be reported for wrongful acts during the policy period which is defined as “from the retro date stated on the policy to the cancellation date of the policy”. Claims must be reported while the ERP endorsement is in force.Insureds can elect a one year or multiple years for the endorsement to be effective for an additional premium. Claims-made policies state the pricing for the endorsement and the conditions “rules” to purchase the coverage. If you do not see pricing in the policy form, you should ask. Bi-lateral coverage is what we see in most claims-made forms. Uni-lateral coverage means only the carrier can determine the price and the days or years of coverage allowed – they can also elect not to offer any ERP coverage.
We’re Here to Help
Contact U.S. E&O Brokers today to learn more about coverage options for your insurance agency and compare personalized quotes.
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
By: Regan Ellmer
IMPACT is the Political Action Committee of the Independent Insurance Agents of Texas. By contributing to IMPACT, you are supporting pro-business candidates who are looking out for agents’ interests in the Capitol. All of the money raised by IMPACT is contributed to candidates and campaigns that support the independent agent network
The Lone Star Economic Alliance (LSEA) is celebrating this week two major victories for Texas businesses across the state: a highly successful LSEA Day at the Texas State Capitol and the filing today of the LSEA-backed omnibus bill addressing nuclear verdicts (SB 30 by Sen. Charles Schwertner and HB 4806 by Rep. Greg Bonnen).
SB 30 and its companion HB 4806 are critical for Texas job creators and Texas families alike. Specifically, the legislation will help protect Texans from higher insurance costs; guarantee fair restitution for legitimate injuries; and create a legal environment that encourages medical providers to treat accident victims without fear of litigation abuse. Critically, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced that SB 30 is among his top 40 priority bills for the 2025 Texas Legislative Session.
On August 28, 2025, over 165 young professionals gathered at Woody’s Hideaway for a fantastic night hosted by Young Insurance Professionals (YIP) and Young Risk Professionals (YRP).
Attendees spent the evening playing pool, darts, simulator games, and more — all while enjoying great food, drinks, and networking.
A big thank you to our sponsors:
Drink Sponsor: Texas Surplus Lines Association, Inc. (TSLA)
Food Sponsor: Starr Companies
Congrats Ayla!
We’re proud to announce the promotion of Ayla Comuyog to Senior Managing Director at Independent Insurance Agents of Houston. With 7 years of dedication to the organization, her leadership continues to be a driving force. Congratulations, Ayla!
Welcome Shelby!
The Independent Insurance Agents of Houston is excited to welcome Shelby Hibbard as Managing Director, effective September 1, 2025. We’re thrilled to have her join the team and look forward to the energy and expertise she brings to the organization!
Bill Fink had his last day at Jencap closing out an insurance career that spans nearly 45 years.
On August 21st, a dedicated group of volunteers rolled up their sleeves and spent the day sorting through donations at The Women’s Home Cottage Shop. Their time, energy, and attention to detail helped make a big impact behind the scenes—ensuring that donated items are ready to support the shop’s mission of empowering women in need.
We’re incredibly grateful for each volunteer who contributed their time and heart to this effort. Your work helps create a welcoming, organized space that supports both the shop and the greater mission of The Women’s Home.
Thank you for showing up, stepping in, and making a difference!
A big THANK YOU to our amazing volunteers who cooked dinner for the families at Ronald McDonald House on Thursday, September 11!
You served up hamburgers, tater tots, and cookies with a whole lot of heart—and it meant so much to the families staying there. Your kindness and generosity truly made a difference.
We’re so grateful for all you do!
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
WHO HAS... THE LAST WORD
Vance Denver
Where do you work?
Genixo Construction
What sound do you love?
A birdie putt dropping!
If you could paint a picture of any scenery, you’ve seen before, what would you paint?
Sunrise Point (Mt Ranier) at Sunrise!
What was the first thing you bought with your own money?
Skid Row CD (1989)
If you could choose to stay a certain age forever, what age would it be?
25! (I would be a professional golfer and I would OWN! lol
What did you do growing up that got you into trouble?
No neighborhood was safe from our fireworks, eggs, TP, and paintballs days.
What is something you learned in the last week? A Boeing 767 will not and cannot do 550 mph at 1000 feet.
Weirdest thing you have ever eaten?
Mystery meat Wednesdays in Iraq.
What is your pet peeve in traffic?
ALL 5 under in the fast lane people.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I m a pretty good shot with a nail gun!
What is your favorite flavor of jellybeans?
Popcorn (Jelly Belly for the win)
What is your LEAST favorite electronic device?
CELL PHONES
What is the longest car trip you have ever taken?
TIED Boston to Houston/San Fransico to Houston
Can vegetarians eat animal crackers?
Only if they are plant based! LOL
Ninjas or pirates?
100/100 Ninjas
What was your favorite childhood television program?
Incredible Hulk
Are you a collector of anything?
Baseball Cards
At a movie theater, which arm rest is yours?
Both
