Heather Wilson
Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Chairman of the Board - Allyson Padilla allyson@blanksinsurance.com
President - Patrick Taphorn, CIC, CSRM ptaphorn@unland.com
President-Elect - Thomas Evans, Jr. tom.evans@assuredpartners.com
Vice President - Chris Leming cleming@troxellins.com
Secretary/Treasurer - Cindy Jackman, CIC, CISR cjackman@arlingtonroe.com
IIABA National Director - George Daly george.daly@thehortongroup.com
Directors
Mohammed Ali - mali@aliminsurance.com
Charles Hruska, IV - chas@hruskains.com
David Jenk, Esq. - djenk@nwibrokers.com
Rebecca Kohn - rkohn@worthyinsurance.com
Lindsey Polzin - lpolzin@presidiogrp.com
Ray Roentz - ray.roentz@hwcrins.com
Noele Tatlock - ntatlock@unland.com
Luis Tayahua - lt@goldenowlinsurance.com
Sharon Waldvogel - sharon@infinitybrokersinc.com
Andrea Wallace - andrea@aadins.com
At-Large Directors
Amiri Curry - acurry@assuranceagency.com
Kevin Lesch - klesch09@gmail.com
Jeff McMillan - jeff@mcmillanins.com
James Sager - james@sagerins.com
Luke Sandrock, CIC - lsandrock@2cornerstone.com
Committee Chairs
Budget & Finance | Cindy Jackman, CIC, CISR cjackman@arlingtonroe.com
Education | Lisa Lukens salibainsurance@gmail.com
Farm Agents Council | Steve Foster s.foster@ciagonline.com
Government Relations | Dustin Peterson dustin@peterson.insurance
Planning & Coordination | Nick Gunn, CIC ngunn@envisionins.com
Technology | Brian Ogden brian@ogdeninsurance.com
Young Agents | Cody Imming cody@imminginsurance.com
Follow us on socials.
Big I Illinois Staff
Director of Information and Technology
Director of Education and Agency Resources
Accounting & Admin Services
Director of Human Resources, Board Admin
Sr. Vice President/Chief Financial Officer
Chief Executive Officer
Director of Membership Services
Director of Government Relations
Office Administrator
Director of Communications
Marketing Representative
Shannon Churchill (217) 321-3004 - schurchill@ilbigi.org
Brett Gerger, CIC (217) 321-3006 - bgerger@ilbigi.org
Tami Hubbell, CIC (217) 321-3016 - thubbell@ilbigi.org
Jennifer Jacobs, SHRM-CP (217) 321-3013 - jjacobs@ilbigi.org
Mark Kuchar (217) 321-3015 - mkuchar@ilbigi.org
Phil Lackman, IOM (217) 321-3005 - plackman@ilbigi.org
Lori Mahorney, CISR Elite (217) 415-7550 - lmahorney@ilbigi.org
Evan Manning (217) 321-3002 - emanning@ilbigi.org
Kristi Osmond, CISR Elite (217) 321-3007 - kosmond@ilbigi.org
Rachel Romines (217) 321-3024 - rromines@ilbigi.org
Tom Ross, CRIS, CPIA (217) 321-3003 - tross@ilbigi.org
Carol Wilson, CPIA (217) 321-3011 - cwilson@ilbigi.org
CONVO 2025
My annual CONVO attending shaming article. Realize this: all of the cool kids will be there.
I imagine that if you've read my articles, you have already registered. If you have, this will just make you feel better about your decision to attend, and perhaps it will encourage you to invite others to attend. If we all bring a friend, it will be exponentially more beneficial for all of us. If you haven’t registered, shame on you, and read no further until you do register at ILConvention.com.
Okay, now that you are back from registering, let’s discuss the enormous benefits of you’ll be receiving by attending. This month’s magazine is all about hiring and talent acquisition. No better place to introduce your new fantabulous (new word) hire to your peers and show them how much better you are than them at hiring talent. Competition is what drives us, correct? This forum is a unique way of diving into the industry headfirst while establishing relationships that can last a lifetime. This is truly a way for you to show why this industry is so special and let them see various aspects of products, carriers, peers all while getting some high-quality educational opportunities.
This is one of the last places to get in-person learning, which provides the best bang for your buck (in my opinion). In the equivalent of two days, you get all of the CE hours that you are required to take for the year, including ethics. You see quality instructors presenting relevant topics, all the while interacting with your peers and colleagues. CONVO topics include everything from cyber to e-bike coverage to talent
3S ense Brett’s
You will have the opportunity to attend the third iteration of the Game of Games, which will now count as ethics (yep, you read that correctly, ETHICS). Our very own Wink Martindale (Luke Praxmarer) and Alexa Trabec (Alec’s daughter, Nicole Broch), will help you navigate the Pursuit of Trivia and Jeopardy games to crown two knowledge champions who will have year-long bragging rights. Bring your team ready to compete and learn. If you cannot learn from Luke and Nicole, something is wrong. Game of Games will jumpstart your learning, which will lead to Casino Night. Casino Night is where much of the learning happens, as it is a social networking event. Social/Networking events are where you learn the most as you engage in the most meaningful conversations, such as, “Do I hit a soft 17 when the dealer has uesday warmup, dipping our toes in the pool, we follow-up with a Wednesday afternoon line-up that will give you a plethora of topics that can meet anyone’s educational needs. Wednesday night provides another opportunity to network at the Big Party while eating. My two favorite things, talking and eating. So far this sounds like utopia. Lastly, we end on Thursday with an E&O Mock Trial, which is also filed as ethics and provides you with the E&O discount depending on participation levels.
My personal self-promotion is the Wednesday afternoon Stump the Specialist, Master, Guru, and Oracle class. This class will allow you to bring scenarios forward that our panel can discuss and hopefully provide you with a solution. No question is too hard, as the individuals that we have assembled are the tops in their respective fields. Try to stump: Luke and Tyler Sandrock with a farm question; Brian Ogden with a personal lines question; Sandy Falco with a commercial lines question, and yours truly with a regulatory question. Be careful, as stumping any of those individuals will be your invitation to sit on the panel next year. etty secure that these individuals
continued...
Brett Gerger - Big I Illinois
will be just fine and have nothing to worry about. By the end of this class, you will be able to identify the Specialist, Master, Guru, and Oracle. This class will be worth the admission alone, but all of the classes that Shannon has put together could stand on their own. As my grandfather would say, everything else would be gravy, and at the end of the day, gravy makes everything better. Gravy is the bacon of the condiment world. Attending the classes offered at CONVO will be like eating bacon covered with gravy (delicious). You will not regret this decision as it’s actually better than bacon covered in gravy, but healthy for you.
Best practice: attend all days and provide yourself with the most bang for your buck. Don’t shortchange yourself as ultimately you will have to pay the price at some point during the year. You should take three days to take in quality, relevant education/networking and free up the rest of your year for quoting, writing, and binding. Networking is the most underrated part of in-person education and shouldn’t be discounted. An hour of networking and sharing ideas is worth ten hours of education, so by attending CONVO 2025, you have a potential of 140+ hours of education, with 12 of those hours being reported as CE. That’s 112 hours of education over three days that you wouldn’t get by taking your normal 12 hours per year. Who doesn’t like free bonus stuff? When you break the cost of convention down it works out to be around $2 per hour of education and a great time with your friends.
Again, sign up at ILConvention.com Remember: everyone is doing it- All the cool kids will be there – I asked really nicely- and it will make you feel good. This CONVO will be the Teletubby, Beanie Baby, Cabbage Patch Kid, Pokémon, Fidget Spinner, Chia Pet, Rubik’s Cube, Tamagotchi, Slinky, and Pet Rock of 2025. Don’t be the only one not knowing what everyone is talking about the Monday following CONVO 2025. It appears that there were way more fads when I was younger.
As always, this is just Brett’s 3 Sense (it rose to 3 as the Fed hasn't lowered rates ) and I hope it was helpful. You can contact me through my CONNECT and if it is urgent, do not hesitate to reach me through CONNECT. I may be pushing you to CONNECT. If you need any clarification or have any suggestions for future articles please email me at bgerger@ ilbigi.org.
ILLIN O I S CONVO
October 7-9
Peoria, IL
Marrott Pere Marquette & Civic Center
CONVO is the biggest annual gathering for independent insurance professionals - an event designed to spark connection, deliver practical insights, and strengthen the future of your agency.
Earn up to 12 hours of Illinois CE credit with industry-driven educational programming. You’ll hear about the latest topics and news that matter most to you from leading experts and your peers. This is where the industry shows up.
Connect with over 120 leading carriers, vendors, and industry partners, explore innovations transforming insurance, and gain insights to help you weather the storms.
Golf Outing
*Separate Fee to benefit State PAC
Join us for a round of golf at Weaver Ridge Golc Club in Peoria, complete with food and beverages, friendly competition, and a great opportunity to network with agents in advance of CONVO on Tuesday, October 7, 10:00 am.
General Session
Representatives from Karen Clark & Co (KCC), the innovation and technology leader in catastrophe risk modeling, will be presenting this year’s eye-opening general session: Navigating the Storm: How Catastrophe Models, Market Strategy, and Resilient Design Are Shaping the Future.
Tradeshow
Explore solutions from 120+ vendors, including carriers, technology partners, market access providers, and association programs built to support your agency. With all exhibit booths sold out, this year’s tradeshow guarantees the most vendors possible - giving you more opportunities than ever to discover what your agency needs next. Whether you’re looking for new tools, strategic connections, or just some clarity amid the chaos, this is where it all comes together. And if you can’t commit to the full CONVO event, you can still attend the tradeshow on its own to access the same unmatched lineup of industry partners and solutions.
Networking Events
CONVO offers several opportunities to build your community of knowledgable professionals, make new friends and contacts, and find out what your old friends and peers have been up to!
Welcome Reception - Dutch Dine Arounds Casino Night - Tradeshow - Big Party
2025 Illinois BES T PRACTICES AGENCIES
At Big I Illinois, we’re proud to have some of the best of the best among our membership - and this year’s Best Practices Agencies are proof of that. Each of these agencies has demonstrated a commitment to excellence in operations, client service, and team culture that sets them apart in a competitive marketplace.
Being named a Best Practices Agency isn’t just about growth or financial success - it’s about leadership, innovation, and an unwavering focus on people: clients, employees, and communities. These Illinois agencies show us what it means to build strong teams, adapt to change, and lead with integrity.
We celebrate their recognition and applaud the ways they are charting the course for independent agencies everywhere. Their experiences and advice offer valuable lessons for any agency looking to strengthen its foundation and prepare for the future.
The Best Practices Study was launched in 1993 by the Big I to help members build and maintain agency value. Now in partnership with Reagan Consulting, this annual study, more than 30 years strong, remains one of the industry’s most valuable resources, providing financial and operational benchmarks that agencies can use to improve performance. Visit independentagent.com for the latest study.
What do you believe has contributed most to your agency ear ning this recognition?
Without question my team made this happen.
What advice would you share with other agencies striving to reach this level?
Make sure you build a team and then trust the members of that team to do their work in their own style. If you have to micromanage someone you are building walls around them rather than empowering them to solve problems and make things happen. Everyone is hung up on AI but if you give your team broad empowerment nothing will ever compete with that.
What do you believe has contributed most to your agency earning this recognition?
Our success has come from a strong focus on people – our team, our clients, our Keystone affiliation, and our carrier partners. We’re always looking for ways to work smarter and stay ahead of what’s coming next.
What advice would you share with other agencies striving to reach this level?
Stick to what you believe in, take care of your people, and be open to change. Keep learning and don’t be afraid to ask questions or lean on others in the industry. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
What do you believe has contributed most to your agency earning this recognition?
Without question, it’s our people. Culture isn’t just a buzzword around here - it’s one of our core values, and we live it every
single day. Our job as leaders of the company is to walk through that door every morning and work for our employees, not the other way around. When we get that right, we achieve some pretty incredible goals together.
What advice would you share with other agencies striving to reach this level?
Authenticity is the new currency of the world in my opinion. We don’t always get it right - and we never will be perfectbut it’s that kind of honesty and vulnerability that defines real leadership. My advice? Be relentlessly authentic. People don’t follow perfection - they follow people that genuinely care about them.
What do you believe has contributed most to your agency earning this recognition?
We’ve made a deliberate investment in hiring and developing new producers, which has been a key driver of our organic growth. While this approach involves financial risk, we remain committed to the long-term value these new agents bring to our agency, making it an essential part of our growth strategy.
Operationally, we’ve focused on clearly defining and communicating “the Compass Way” of doing business. This emphasis on consistency has allowed us to centralize certain non-customer-facing tasks and improve efficiency. In addition, we actively monitor our spending and continually seek opportunities to reduce expenses.
Lastly, our service team plays a vital role in retaining customers. Their genuine care and dedication not only strengthen client relationships but also contribute significantly to our strong reputation in the communities we serve.
What advice would you share with other agencies striving to reach this level?
Be intentional about strategic planning. We work hard to spend time as a leadership team on looking down the road. While pulling out of the day to day fires is challenging, we are committed to following the strategic planning framework we’ve adopted and with each passing year we see more and more positive benefits from this investment.
What do you believe has contributed most to your agency ear ning this recognition?
First Mid Insurance Group team members strive for service and operational excellence. We believe values lead and revenues follow. We push ourselves to improve everyday, so we can help our customers better.
What advice would you share with other agencies striving to reach this level?
Dont be afraid of change, even radical change. Even it could lead to failure, because we learn and grow from mistakes as much if not more than from success. Growth requires pruning. Keep the best, whether it's talent, processes, customers, or vendor and carrier relationships, and weed out the things that aren't working in the best interests of the customers and the employees.
For more than 160 years, we have stood alongside our communities, learning their unique needs and safeguarding the lives and businesses they’ve built. At Hanford Insurance, we take great pride in fostering deep relationships with our clients, delivering personalized and friendly service every step of the way.
What do you believe has contributed most to your agency earning this recognition?
People and teamwork are the foundation of our success. An individual can only go so far, but together we can achieve exponentially more. That’s why we prioritize bringing outstanding people onto our team - it’s vital to our growth and success.
What advice would you share with other agencies striving to reach this level?
Success comes from both working hard and working smart. Business has shifted from valuing sheer effort to emphasizing efficiency and innovation. We believe the true path forward is combining both - working harder and smarter - while continuously evaluating our processes to prevent complacency.
What do you believe has contributed most to your agency earning this recognition?
Hiring my kids to join the agency and training them to take up the responsibility. In addition to their help our team has stepped up in providing timely service to our customers.
What advice would you share with other agencies striving to reach this level?
Your existing customers are your ambassadors so staying connected with them and asking for referrals is key to growing business profitably.
What do you believe has contributed most to your agency earning this recognition?
At The Plexus Groupe, it always starts with our people. This recognition as a Best Practices Agency is a reflection of our team's expertise, adaptability, and shared commitment to excellence. Since our founding we have been intentional about building a culture that values collaboration, innovation, and accountability. As we have grown, breaking into the Top 100 of the Largest Brokers of U.S. Brokers, we’ve remained focused on refining our operations, investing in our people and technology, adapting to market shifts, and continually finding new ways to deliver value to those we serve. In an industry undergoing significant consolidation and outside investments, this achievement validates the work we have done and the vision we are pursuing to remain truly independent, so our clients remain at the heart of everything we do.
What advice would you share with other agencies striving to reach this level?
Never lose sight of your “why.” In our experience, growth and recognition follow when you stay committed to your mission, invest in your people, and remain flexible in how you accomplish your goals. Build systems that support efficiency and scalability, but don’t let process outweigh purpose, and do not be afraid to rethink the way you operate. Strong leadership, clear direction, and a culture of accountability are key. Ultimately, agencies that succeed at this level are the ones that commit to continuous improvement while staying true to their core mission. The marketplace is always changing and your willingness to evolve with it is what will set you apart.
What do you believe has contributed most to your agency earning this recognition?
Our people! I realize that is not a unique answer or one that gives away a unique trade secret but that is truly the secret to our success. We all sell similar products and can win from time to time on price if that is truly what is important but if we are honest with each other our clients all value service and honest advice and information. Our people provide that and enjoy that part of their job and we talk about that internally all the time. Our Mission Statement is “We Educate, Advocate and Protect our People.” For us, Our People means not only our clients but in our eyes it starts with our team and their families, and we work hard everyday so that they feel that from Troxell.
What advice would you share with other agencies striving to reach this level?
I think we can all agree that top line revenue and agency growth is important, and it takes a great deal of effort to achieve that on a profitable basis to remain relevant and exist into the future. I would just suggest that it is equally important to develop your non-financial assets at a faster pace and with great attention and purpose and it just may be that top-line revenue is achieved some days almost despite ourselves!
ILLINOIS
Talent Events, Solutions, and Resources
IGNITE Talent
Big I Illinois and NAAIA Chicago have teamed up to provide best practices and resources to help agencies address their biggest challenges. This quarter, we’re focused on talent! Join us for these FREE virtual sessions:
Wednesday, September 17, 2025 - 10:00 am
Build a 4-step hiring process with Ideal Traits
In a competitive hiring landscape, the agencies that succeed are the ones that treat hiring like a growth strategy; leveraging the right tools, messaging, and processes to consistently bring in top talent. In this session, we’ll demonstrate how IdealTraits simplifies the hiring process and delivers the tools and insights your agency needs to attract top talent, drive growth, and consistently achieve your business goals.
Wednesday, October 1, 2025 – 10:00 am
Navigating the Future of Staffing: AI, Skills-Based Hiring, and Workforce Flexibility
2025 has seen the staffing landscape rapidly evolve, shaped by advancements in AI and shifting workforce expectations. To stay competitive, organizations must embrace technology, adopt skills-based hiring practices, and cultivate a culture of flexibility. This session will explore actionable strategies for attracting top talent - from new graduates to seasoned professionals - while retaining and developing existing employees to bridge the insurance talent gap. Join us to discover how to future-proof your workforce and build a thriving, adaptable team.
Visit go.ilbigi.org/Events to sign up and stay up to date on the next Ignite Sessions which will cover: Carrier Appointments, Technology and Funding.
CONNECT
Did you know there is an Agency Owner's group in CONNECT - our online community?
connect.ilbigi.org
This group is a great place to ask questions and seek advice from your peers!
INVEST Student Challenge – Coming in December!
Help us support the Invest program in its mission to educate students on careers in insurance by promoting the 2026 student challenge! Building on the success of the 2025 challenge, Invest has launched REAL WORLD READY: What Every 18-Year-Old Should Know Before Life Hits. Teams made up of 2-4 high school students are tasked with creating a video campaign to help young adults understand the realworld importance of insurance when it comes to getting their first job, buying a car, signing a lease and managing their own finances. The top three teams will win cash prizes and a pizza party for their classroom.
Big I Illinois members can help by sharing this challenge with your local high school, with any teachers you know, and with students who can team up to compete. The contest runs from December 10, 2025-February 6, 2026. Details online at www.investprogram.org/students/Student%20Challenge/ Student%20Challenge.aspx.
Check out the Members-Only Solution Center for more resources!
- Employee Onboarding Checklist
- Recent Employer Legislation
- Pre-Employment Forms & Required Postings
- Sample Producer Agreement
- and More!
Solution Center
Big “I” Hires℠ has curated resources to help you find, hire, assess and engage your team. When it’s time to assemble your dream team, the Big “I” has your back with cutting-edge tools that make hiring easy!
WWW.BIGIHIRES.COM
Develop your agency’s talent into confident, connected future leaders.
Transform talented employees, whether new or experienced, through the dynamic Rising Insurance Professionals Program (RIPP). This distinctive program enhances employee confidence, fosters networking, and bolsters the overall performance of the next generation of leaders. The program framework emphasizes personal and professional development, community engagement, and valuable networking opportunities.
Over the course of the program, participants will take part in five immersive, in-person gatherings.
Session One - February - Springfield, IL
Insights and Connections
Session Two - April - - Springfield, IL
Advocacy and Government Relations
Session Three - May - St. Louis/Southern IL
ilbigi.org
Sales & Leadership
Session Four - August - St. Charles, IL
Behind the Carrier Curtain
Session Five - October - Peoria, IL
CONVO and Graduation
not fine print.
We believe insurance should sound like a conversation, not a contract. So, we skip the jargon and meet you where you are—with tools, insights, and people who know your customers’ industries inside and out, from manufacturers and contractors to breweries and wineries.
That’s how partnerships work. And that’s how we work. Because at EMC, we’re all about Keeping insurance human®
Let’s get to know each other at emcinsurance.com
ILLIN O I S
Spotlight on
The Future of the Industry
Recognizing Bright Stars in the Industry.
Why did you choose to pursue a career in insurance?
I didn’t originally set out to pursue a career in insurance, it sort of found me. One of my first jobs after college was working at the home office of an insurance company. I quickly realized I enjoyed learning the ins and outs of the industry, and that interest eventually led me to become an agent during the COVID pandemic. Working from home during that time was a real eye-opener. I learned that the remote lifestyle wasn’t for me - I missed being around people and having a more personal connection in my work. That realization pushed me to leave the corporate side and pursue a career as an independent agent.
I ended up moving back to my hometown and am now heading into my fifth year as an independent agent. It just made sense - helping the people I grew up with, in a community I care about. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. I made some great friends on the corporate side, but becoming an independent agent has opened more doors for me - both professionally and personally. I’m excited to see what the future holds.
What obstacles did you face when you first started, and how did come them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced early on was navigating the generational gap in communication. As a Millennial (shout out to my fellow Millennials), I entered the workforce during a time when technology habits varied widely. Some clients and coworkers were fully comfortable using the internet and digital tools, while others weren’t - and we were all trying to do business together.
I grew up with technology being a daily part of life - computers were in my home, classroom, and college experience. So it was a bit of an adjustment learning how to effectively work with people who didn’t rely on tech the same way. But I quickly realized that flexibility was key. I learned to meet people where they are. Now, one of the first things I ask every new client is how they prefer to be contacted - whether that’s by phone, email, text, or even in person. The answers vary, but I’m happy to oblige either way. That small habit has gone a long way in building trust and providing better
s something people should know about your generation in the workplace?
As a Millennial in the workplace, I think it's important for people to understand that we grew up during a major transition - from analog to digital. That’s shaped the way we communicate, adapt, and approach our work. We’re used to navigating change, we value efficiency and purpose, and we often blend traditional values with new tools. In many cases, we’re the bridge between generations - able to connect with older clients who prefer phone calls and handwritten notes, while also leveraging tech and automation to serve the next generation. We’re not lazy or entitled - we just want to work smarter and make an impact.
How
has this industry impacted your life?
The insurance industry has completely shaped my professional life - and honestly, a big part of my personal growth too. It’s given me a career where I get to help people every day, whether it's protecting their first home, their small business, or their family’s future. It’s also pushed me outside my comfort zone - learning how to communicate across generations, handle tough conversations, and build long-term relationships. I’ve gained confidence, independence, and a stronger sense of purpose through this work. It’s more than a job; it’s a community and a platform to really make a difference.
ILLIN O I S
Thank You
for your many years of service!
Board service is one of the toughest volunteer roles and these outgoing board members performed their responsibilities with dedication and tenacity. They have tirelessly given their time and resources to help make the association what it is today.
The Big I Illinois staff appreciates their contributions and wishes them nothing but the best in their future endeavors.
Amiri Curry
Assurance Agency, Ltd.
Schaumburg, IL
Amiri joined the Board of Directors as an At-Large Director in 2020 and also served on the Chicagoland Board as well as the Government Relations Committee.
Nick Gunn
Envision Insurance Morton, IL
Nick began his service as a regional director in 2019 and was a member of the Planning & Coordination Committee. He has served as Chairman of the P&C committee since 2021.
David Jenk
Northwest Insurance Brokers
Chicago, IL
David is a member of the Chicagoland Board and has served as a Director on the Big I Illinois Board since 2021. He will continue his service with the Big I as a member of the Agents Insurance Services (AIS) Board.
Bill
Lawrence P/L/R Insurance Services
Bloomington, IL
Bill Lawrence has previously served the Big I Illinois Board as Government Relations Committee Chair and now completes his service as President of the Agents Insurance Services Board.
Lisa Lukens
Saliba-Yewell Insurance Services, Inc. Herrin, IL
Lisa began her service to the association as a member of the Education Committee and as Region 1 Director in 2016. She became Chairperson of the Education Committee in 2021. During Lisa’s tenure as Chair, the committee began new partnerships with Insurance Journal Academy and The Institutes. They also introduced a 21-hour CE book for self-study. Lisa was presented with the Committee Chair of the Year Award at the Big I Board Meeting in August, recognizing her outstanding service.
Jeff McMillan
McMillan Insurance Services, Inc.
Gilman, IL
Jeff has served the Big I Board as a member of the Education Committee, as Farm Agents Council Representative and most recently, At-Large Director. Jeff will continue service to the association as President of the AIS Board.
Allyson Padilla
Blank's Insurance Agency Olney, IL
Allyson completes her service on the Big I Illinois Executive Committee after serving this past year as Chairperson of the Board. In this role she was responsible for overseeing the work of the Leadership Development and Succession Planning Committee which is responsible for filling the open seats on the Board of Directors for the coming year. Previously, Allyson served as a Regional Director and as Young Agents Committee Chair.
Lindsey Polzin
Acrisure Midwest
Naperville, IL
Lindsey completes her second round of service on the Big I Illinois Board. She previously completed terms as Young Agents Committee Chair, Education Committee Chair and served on the AIS Board. Lindsey’s 4-year term as a Director comes to a close this year.
James Sager
Sager Insurance Group, LLC Dahlgren, IL
James Sager has served Big I Illinois as a member of the Young Agents Committee, a Regional Director and an At-Large Director.
ILLINOIS
IAMIC Convention
Phil Lackman, Brett Gerger and Shannon Churchill all attended the IAMIC Annual Convention in August. Brett presented during the event, highlighted the pressures on Illinois’ insurance market and the risks of legislative overreach and explained some of the challenges the industry will be facing going into the veto session this fall. Check out CONNECT for details on these issues.
IGNITE Talent
Big I Illinois and NAAIA Chicago joined forces to host Ignite Talent in Oakbrook, a breakfast event focused on workforce and talent development. Participants connected with fellow professionals and heard best practices for attracting and retaining top talent from Halima Cegur of Worthy Insurance in Skokie and Kate Krebsbach with Scully Insurance Group in Oakbrook. Whitnee Dillard, Executive Director of the national Invest Program spoke to attendees about educating young people about careers in insurance through the Invest program and announced the 2026 student challenge – a video project to prompt high school students to consider the benefits of a career in insurance.
Souther n Illinois Baseball Outing
August 8, St. Louis
Thanks to event sponsors: Arlington/Roe, PuroClean, and WA Schickedanz/Interstate Risk Placement.
IAAE Annual Conference
Phil Lackman and Shannon Churchill attended the annual Independent Agent Association Executive (IAAE) Conference in Asheville, NC in late July. The four-day event brings together Big I State Association Executives to discuss the real challenges our associations are facing, celebrate the successes of independent agents and provides a platform to discuss future initiatives and areas of focus. This year’s agenda focused on resiliency with sessions on
the role of independent agents and rebuilding of Western NC after recent flooding; the risk of mental health in the our industry, the changing landscape of the agency force; the future of AI and practical use cases; and strategies to help members elevate their value proposition in the changing market.
Building a foundation for growth and leadership are key elements of this event and I am thankful for the opportunity to have been at the table with these great peers and leaders.
- Churchill
Big I Illinois Fourth Quarterly Board Meeting
Big I Board Members met in Springfield for the 4th Quarterly meeting. They discussed the recent industry news on insurance rate increases and the background sheet Big I Illinois prepared and sent to members on the topic. Board members challenged each other to raise funds in their offices to support the Big I Illinois State Political Action Committee. They voted to approve the FY2025-2026 Budget. The Young Agents Committee announced that registration for the 2026 Rising Insurance Professionals program is open now. Staff members provided updates on the Agency 360 Compensation Study that will be conducted in September and October – results will be available at no cost to agency members that submit their data for the study. They also provided updates on the 2025 CONVO lineup and conducted a phone bank to remind members to register for the event.
Board Service Award
Allyson Padilla Chairman of the Board 2024-2025
Committee Chair of the Year
Lisa Lukens Education Committee
Director of the Year
2025 RIPP Program
The inaugural Rising Insurance Professionals Program (RIPP) participants met in Springfield for a behind the scenes look into the underwriting process and do's and don'ts of E&O. Special thanks to Kyle Shell and Todd Greer of IPMG and Nicole Broch of Bliss McKnight for sharing their expertise!
See how your agency can get involved in the 2026 RIPP program on page 23.
Sharon Waldvogel
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User Friendly Interface:
Access a dashboard featuring real time data on your website and track progress over time.
Thank you to our Associate Members.
Diamond Level
Platinum Level
Progressive
Surplus Line Association of Illinois
Silver Level
Bliss-McKnight IMT Insurance
Gold Level
Arlington/Roe
Blue Cross/Blue Shield of IL
CRC Group Pekin Insurance
Keystone Insurance Group, Inc. MEM Peoples Premium Finance
Bronze Level
1Fort
A. J. Wayne & Associates
AAA, The Auto Club Group
AMERISAFE
AmTrust Insurance
Apollo Brokers dba Limit
Auto-Owners Insurance Co.
Berkley Small Business Solutions
Berkshire Hathaway GUARD Insurance Companies
BlueSky Restoration Contractors, LLC
Boundless Rider
BriteCo
Central Illinois Mutual Insurance Company
Chubb
Columbia Insurance Group
Cowbell Cyber
Cray, Kaiser Ltd.
Donald Gaddis Company, Inc.
Donegal Insurance Group
EMC Insurance
Encova Insurance
Erie Insurance Group
Foremost Insurance
Forreston Mutual Insurance Company
Graham-Rogers
Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company
IA Valuations
Illinois Mine Subsidence Ins Fund
Illinois Public Risk Fund
Imperial PFS
Independent Mutual Fire Insurance Company
Indiana Farmers Insurance
Insurance Program Managers Group (IPMG)
J M Wilson
Levitate
Liberty Mutual/Safeco Insurance
Madison Mutual Insurance Company
Main Street America Insurance
Mercury Insurance Group
Midwest Insurance Company
Nationwide
Paychex HR and Payroll Solutions
Rockford Mutual Ins. Co.
SECURA Insurance
ServiceMaster DSI
Society Insurance
SPRISKA - Specialty Risk of America
Steadily
Summit Insurance
Travelers
W. A. Schickedanz Agency, Inc./Interstate Risk Placement
West Bend Insurance Company
Western National Insurance
Westfield
XPT Specialty
T hey’re not just workers. They’re people.
Injuries happen — even when a business does everything right. With West Bend workers’ compensation coverage, you not only help protect your client’s business, but you also give them peace of mind that their people are being cared for.
We help you deliver the coverage your clients need with the service they deserve.
That’s the power of The Silver Lining® . T he Worst Brings Out Our Best®.
September 15-16 Vir tual Class 16 hours of IL CE credit
Learn how to help commercial clients navigate critical issues, such as cyberthreats and crime from both property and casualty perspectives. In the CIC Commercial Multiline course, learn how to identify Commercial Inland Marine, Crime, Cyber and Employment Practices exposures. The course will also help you learn about the types of coverage available to address these exposures as you develop insurance programs for your clients.
For information regarding Big I Illinois membership or company sponsorship, contact Lori Mahorney, Director of Membership Services, at (217) 321-3008, lmahorney@ilbigi.org.
LOOKING FOR AN EXIT STRATEGY?
23. Are you looking for an exit strategy while still continuing to produce for a few years or are you ready to sell now? Paczolt Insurance would like to talk with you! We are an independent agency dating back to the 1970s that is located in the western suburbs. Our focus is on mid-to-small commercial accounts and personal lines. Our companies include EMC, Badger Mutual, Safeco, Progressive, and Travelers. We have the flexibility and capital to get a deal done. Contact:
Susan Troppito
Paczolt Insurance susan@piaigroup.com (708) 215-5202
AGENCY WANTED
20. Since 2004, Central Illinois Agents Group LLC has been providing independent agents with a variety of markets with contingency opportunities. Agents have availability to several markets that they may not be able to sustain or maintain on their own. We have markets for personal, commercial, agricultural and crop insurance lines. Let us help you get to the next level.
Visit www.ciagonline.com for contact information.
AGENCY/AGENTS/PRODUCERS WANTED
02. Forest Park/Oak Park agency for over 60 years, will meet your needs by providing space, markets, marketing & sales support, automation, merging with or purchasing your agency. Perpetuation/ Succession Plans, Buy-Sell Agreements also available. We have experienced, educated and dedicated staff for you and your clients. Have access to our numerous companies, office services and many other resources. Please look closely at us- we are an agency you want to do business with! We’ve done it before, we know how- we make it easy! Visit our website at forestagency.com/agents.html, or call for a confidential discussion and a list of Agency benefits.
Dan Browne will provide an agency evaluation/appraisal at little cost to you. Please call:
Dan Browne or Cathy Hall Forest Insurance/Relation Insurance Services (708) 383-9000
www.forestinsured.com/mergers-acquisitions
The green speed on tour today is twice as fast as it was 50 years ago.
Luke Donald knows the game has evolved. As a winning Ryder Cup Captain, he chooses his players carefully.
At United Risk, we unite elite capability backed by proven results. A magnet for apex underwriting professionals committed to free enterprise and success.
T he Global Choice for Apex Underwriting Professionals.
Luke Donald R yder Cup Captain, Team Europe 2023 & 2025 Former World Number One.