HIN 2024-2025 5th Edition

HIN

2024 - 2025 5TH EDITION

1

EVENTS NOV 6 th Pickle Ball Tournament NOV 10th Fall Golf Tournament FEB 18th Houston Insurance Day 2026

Kid's Meals Volunteer Project OCT 3 rd IICF Veteran Cemetery Clean up OCT 16th Hope Lodge Bingo Night NOV 13th

VOLUNTEER

2

2024 - 2025

FEATURES

HIN

YIP & YRP

Happy Hour

19 - 24

IIAH Gives Back

29 - 30

CONTENTS 2

EVENTS & EDUCATION

13 E&O

4

COMMITTEE SPOTLIGHT

17 IMPACT

7

PRESIDENT & CEO MESSAGE 27 HAVE YOU HEARD

9

AFFILIATE SPOTLIGHT

11 CHAIRMAN MESSAGE

3

32 IN MEMORIAM 33 WHO HAS THE LAST WORD

HOUSTON INSURANCE NEWS COMMITTEE SPOTLIGHT 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 DETAILS

2

COMMITTEES 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.

2025 - 2026 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

South & Western General Agency

EXECUTIVE

COMMITTEE

Susan Zipperer

Chairman

Ryan Beavers

Chairman Elect

Angela Delap

Vice Chairman

Robert Oncken

Treasurer

Faith Boren

Treasurer Elect

David Wuthrich

Secretary

Jason Knecht

Past Chairman

Chris Dowling

Affiliate Liaison

Tom Fitzpatrick

Affiliate Liaison

BOARD OF

DIRECTORS Matthew Erskin

Jesse Serna

Sam Houston

Daniel Shearer

Matt Leicht

Keaton Sumicek

Charles McDade

Wes Weatherred

Kathryn Noser

Blake Wellmann

William Peachey

STAFF

David Wuthrich

President & CEO

Renee Stager

Sr. Managing Director

Ayla Benavides

Managing Director

Deb McRae

Advertising/Membership

7660 Woodway #535, Houston, Texas 77063

www.iiah.org P: 832. 769.4666 F: 832.324.3503

September 30, 2025

David Wuthrich Dwuthrich@iiah.org

Fall is officially here, although in Houston it hardly feels like it when the temperature 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 choose 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!

7

David Wuthrich IIAH President & CEO

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 Rsmith@genixoconstruction.com

modern residential complexes, senior living facilities, 713 - 574 - 6994 and student housing developments.

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.

9

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.

Susan Zipperer IIAH Chairman 2025-2026

11

Sign up

4:30 – 9:00 P M

Drink Sponsor

Venue Sponsor

Bag Sponsor

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.

Please note all policy language may vary, please refer to your policy and read language carefully.

13

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.

R

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

Members Only

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.

32

19

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

Thanks to everyone who came out—we’re excited for what’s next!

20

21

22

23

24

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!

27

Happy Retirement Bill!

Bill Fink had his last day at Jencap closing out an insurance career that spans nearly 45 years.

Welcome Susan as Chairman of IIAH. We’re thrilled to welcome Susan Zipperer of EFG Insurance Agency as the 2025-2026 Chairman of IIAH.

Her leadership, vision, and dedication to the industry inspire us, and we’re excited for what this year will bring under her guidance.

Here’s to a great year ahead!

28

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!

29

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 ayla@iiah.org. Your suggestions could help make a real difference!

30

Lenny Bauer It is with both sadness and deep gratitude that I share news of the passing of our beloved former colleague and friend Lenny Bauer.

Lenny passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 20. Lenny was more than a leader at BCH — she was foundational to who we are today. When she joined BCH in 1986 as the agency operations leader, we were just a handful of people. This meant that at one time or another, she stepped into nearly every role, sat in nearly every cubicle and helped shape the strong operational backbone that allows us to thrive today. More importantly, she helped build the company culture that continues to guide us: one grounded in the genuine care we show for one another, our clients and carrier partners.

Lenny’s story is remarkable and inspiring. Born in Batavia, New York, before WWII, she grew up in Rochester where she met her lifelong partner, Art. Together they built a beautiful family, including sons Mark & Kirk Bauer. Lenny lived a life full of adventure and dedication — whether it was her days barrel racing quarter horses at county fairs, her early career in claims with Liberty Mutual or the decades of service she devoted to the insurance industry. Lenny even went on to serve as president of the Houston Insurance Association (now IIAH), where she earned the Distinguished Service Award — one of her proudest moments.

Beyond the accolades, Lenny’s true legacy lives in the people whose lives she touched. She had a gift for connection, building friendships, mentoring colleagues and making each of us feel seen and valued. Her pride in this industry and in her family was unmatched. She often said she felt blessed to work in a field she loved, surrounded by people she cherished — and to see one of her sons carry forward the same passion.

Although Lenny retired in 2014, she always kept in touch with BCH's people and progress. She cared deeply. Those who knew Lenny will miss her wisdom, her laughter, her sharp wit and steady presence. Yet her influence is woven into the very fabric of BCH. Every time we collaborate, support one another and serve our clients with care, we honor her memory.

On behalf of the entire BCH family, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Mark, Janet and Julia Bauer — and to their extended family.

32

THE LAST

WHO HAS...

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

41 33

ADVERTISE WITH US!

Deb McRae

713-412-0794 debmcrae@aol.com ADVERTISER INDEX 1 TEXAS MUTUAL 8 NEITCLEM INSURACE 14 SERVICE INSURANCE 17 HOUSTON INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS 18 STROMAN CONSULTING 26 TXOGA 31 RSI INTERNATIONAL 34 BUSINESS CARD ADS 34