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LEADING THE RMI ADVANTAGE
This year marked a period of continued growth and meaningful momentum for The Baldwin Group School of Risk Management and Insurance With the risk management and insurance (RMI) major now offered across all three USF campuses, our reach expanded and so did our impact Students engaged in hands-on learning across the region and state, nationally, and internationally from experiential learning visits at the Tampa International Airport and with Shepherd Insurance, to representing USF at sales competitions and industry events such as WSIA and RiskWorld in Chicago. They also explored global markets through immersive experiences in Cologne, Munich and London. These moments weren’t just educational, they were transformative
Our faculty remained actively involved in advancing the discipline, presenting at leading academic conferences and helping shape the curriculum that anchors our growing program
Randy Dumm Director, The Baldwin Group School of Risk Management and Insurance
At the same time, our Risk Advisory Council (RAC) and industry partners deepened their investment in both the school and our students providing internships and full-time career opportunities, guest lecturing, and participating in our Gamma Iota Sigma (GIS) Spotlight Speaker Series Their involvement extended beyond career development, as they mentored students, led fundraising initiatives, hosted networking events, and volunteered side-by-side with students at Feeding Tampa Bay. These partnerships exemplify what it means to give back generously and to lead with purpose.
Student leadership soared as well, with our GIS Delta Beta chapter earning national distinction and serving as a cornerstone of professional development and community service
As we reflect on the year’s achievements, one thing is clear: the school continues its path of significant growth We have a powerful and positive story to tell about what it means to put risk in your future and the opportunities that it creates. The RMI Advantage story resonates deeply with us our students, faculty, and industry partners. Together, we are growing the next generation of risk professionals.
The stories and photos that follow are a testament to the energy, innovation, and care our team brings to the RMI experience inside the classroom and far beyond it.
OUR TEAM
At the heart of The Baldwin Group School of Risk Management and Insurance is a dedicated team of faculty and staff who believe in the power of education to shape futures and industries
Throughout the 2024–2025 academic year, our team has worked with passion and purpose to grow the program, inspire the next generation of RMI professionals, and foster a culture of exploration and excellence.
From mentoring students through internships and international experiences, advancing impactful research, developing a forward-looking curriculum to support future risk professionals, to building bridges to industry, our collective efforts reflect a deep commitment to student success and the evolving needs of the field.
Randy Dumm Director and Professor
Assistant Professor
Po-Lin Wang Associate Professor
Steve Miller
Assistant Professor
Boheng Su
Director, Business Strategy, Muma College of Business
Kristi Hoskinson
Assistant Professor of Instruction
Alex Schwartz
Assistant Professor of Instruction
Dalton Crabtree
THE BALDWIN GROUP SCHOOL OF RISK MANAGEMENT AND INSURANCE VISION
To be a nationally recognized leader in risk management and insurance education where innovation, industry collaboration, and student transformation come together to shape the future of the profession.
MISSION
The Baldwin Group School of Risk Management and Insurance educates and empowers the next generation of risk professionals through high-impact learning, engaged industry partnerships, and research that informs practice and policy. With a strong presence across all USF campuses and deep roots in the Tampa Bay region, the school provides students with The RMI Advantage a dynamic blend of academic excellence, professional readiness, and real-world connection We invite students to Put Risk in Their Future as they pursue meaningful careers that strengthen the resilience of organizations and communities alike.
THE ROADMAP TO THE RMI ADVANTAGE
Empowering Students through Experiential Learning and Industry Engagement
From the start, the school has prioritized real-world learning in risk management and insurance. Whether touring Tampa International Airport, visiting Lloyd’s of London, participating in competitions, or engaging in GISrelated events and activities, students gain early exposure to career-shaping experiences. These opportunities are made possible through the support of the school’s industry partners and its Risk Advisory Council, who serve as mentors, sponsors, and collaborators
Building a Strong Brand and Student Pipeline
Fueled by the success of Gamma Iota Sigma and the power of taglines like “Put Risk in Your Future” and “The RMI Advantage,” the school has established a high-visibility brand across all USF campuses and the Tampa Bay region. Strategic outreach to high schools, advisors, and undergraduate students along with consistent messaging on LinkedIn and in the classroom has driven unprecedented growth in both enrollment and student organization membership The RMI 3004 course, now required across the Muma College of Business, is helping students discover the field early and find their fit.
Advancing a Culture of Academic Excellence and Thought Leadership
Faculty are actively contributing to the academic and professional evolution of the RMI field. Through conference presentations, international seminars, and research, the school is growing its reputation and influence These scholarly efforts, coupled with curriculum development, are positioning the school as a source of both innovation and impact in risk management education.
WHERE RISK MEETS THE REAL WORLD
Marine Insurance
Students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of marine insurance through two standout experiences this year At the 2024 Fort Lauderdale Mariners Club Seminar, they engaged in expert-led sessions and exclusive site tours, including behind-thescenes access to Blackwater and Deep Impact boat models Students also participated in dynamic discussions with industry leaders from Great American Insurance Group, gaining early career insights and a deeper understanding of the marine insurance market.
Wholesale and Specialty
Four USF RMI students traveled to Atlanta to take part in the WSIA Extreme Risk Takers Student Symposium, an immersive two-day experience focused on the dynamic world of excess and surplus lines insurance. Their participation was made possible by generous support from the Florida Surplus Lines Service Office.
54th Annual Conference, Gamma Iota Sigma
Eight student leaders from USF’s Delta Beta Chapter of Gamma Iota Sigma attended the 54th Annual GIS International Conference in Indianapolis one of the premier national events for risk management, insurance, and actuarial science talent. Over three packed days, students participated in breakout sessions on leadership and technical topics, engaged directly with top employers during a robust career fair.
SARASOTA BUSINESSES
with Shepherd Insurance
Students spent the day with Shepherd Insurance experiencing client-facing risk management in action gaining firsthand insight into relationship-building, real estate risk, and career pathways, thanks to the leadership of Patrick Del Medico and Maggie Watkins The day included site visits to New Balance, Neal Communities of Southwest Florida, and Waterside, offering students a real-world look at how risk is managed across industries.
THE BALDWIN GROUP DAY
Students from Gamma Iota Sigma and USF Muma’s Bulls Business Community experienced an unforgettable day of hands-on learning at The Baldwin Group headquarters, thanks to the leadership of Elizabeth Krystyn and Kelly Matty. Through interactive breakout sessions led by industry professionals, students explored the fundamentals of risk and insurance in action deepening their knowledge, building confidence, and connecting classroom concepts to real-world practice.
TAMPA INTERNATIONAL
AIRPORT
Gamma Iota Sigma students took flight at Tampa International Airport during an immersive experiential learning day that brought enterprise risk management to life. From touring baggage operations to exploring IT systems and safety protocols, students saw firsthand how insurance and risk management are essential to keeping aviation running smoothly. A special thank you to Chris Reyes for providing such an insightful and inspiring behind-the-scenes experience
RISKWORLD 2025
Students had an unforgettable experience at RiskWorld 2025 in Chicago one of the world’s largest gatherings of risk management professionals, hosted by the Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS). This high-energy conference offered a frontrow seat to the future of risk, with industryleading sessions, hands-on learning, and powerful networking opportunities.
“RiskWorld was not just informative it was highly engaging and helped develop the next generation of risk professionals,” shared Dr Steve Miller, professor, who led the students at this conference and witnessed firsthand how national exposure and industry immersion can elevate both confidence and career clarity.
INTERCOLLEGIATE INSURANCE SALES CHALLENGE
The Baldwin Group School of Risk Management and Insurance signaled that it is serious about creating opportunities for students who see themselves as future sales professionals as it sent its inaugural team to compete in the Intercollegiate Insurance Sales Competition in Orlando. Students stepped into a high-stakes roleplay with risk managers from a fictional theme park, testing their communication, analysis, and sales acumen under pressure.
Guided by dedicated coach and Risk Advisory Council member Matt Ostrander, the team arrived ready to compete and came away with real-world confidence, stronger skills, and a meaningful sense of accomplishment.
STUDENT VOICES. INDUSTRY IMPACT.
There’s no better way to learn than by doing and this year, USF RMI and GIS students took the mic. From presenting at a Tampa Bay RIMS Chapter meeting to sharing their journeys at the Florida Association of Insurance Agents (FAIA) Workforce Summit and a Risk Advisory Council meeting, USF students spoke candidly about what it means to grow into a future industry professional. Whether discussing the value of experiential learning, the influence of Gamma Iota Sigma, or their international experience in Munich, the students brought professionalism, insight, and authenticity to every stage. Their voices are shaping how the industry sees the next generation of talent and how students see themselves
2025 FAIA Workforce Summit
USF Risk Advisory Council Meeting
Tampa Bay RIMS Chapter Meeting
MEET THE EMPLOYER NIGHT
The school hosted its first-ever Meet the Employer Night marking a major milestone in the school’s commitment to career readiness and opportunity.
The event brought 100+ students face-to-face with top companies in risk management and insurance With rising student interest and strong industry support, this high-energy evening opened doors to internships, full-time roles, and lasting professional connections
PARTICIPATING EMPLOYERS
Braishfield
Ostrander Risk Partners
Johnson & Johnson
Shepherd Insurance
Paychex
RT Specialty
The Baldwin Group
Florida Surplus Lines Service Office
Federated Insurance Company
Amerisure Insurance Company
Amwins
Bridge Specialty Group (Hull and Company, LLC)
Great American Insurance Company
CRC Group
Element22 Insurance Services
Irys Insurtech
WHERE EDUCATION MEETS INDUSTRY
Experiential learning takes many forms but regardless of the where, when, or how education meets industry, students benefit from professionals who show up, speak up, and share their experience. Our industry partners help translate classroom learning into real-world momentum, bridging the gap between theory and thriving careers.
YRP North Florida Steps Up and Swings Big
The Young Risk Professionals North Florida chapter showed what industry leadership looks like with a highimpact golf tournament benefiting The Baldwin Group School of Risk Management and Insurance. With generous support from sponsors including Amwins — and operational partnership from the Spencer Educational Foundation, the event raised awareness and scholarship funds for students pursuing careers in risk and insurance.
Led by YRP board members Blake Rios and Amanda Ruppel, the chapter went beyond the fairway by also hosting a networking reception that connected students with young professionals in the field
FRONT OF CLASS, HEART OF INDUSTRY
We believe real-world exposure is essential to preparing the next generation of industry leaders. Thanks to the incredible partners in the field, that exposure starts right in the classroom
Throughout the year, students have benefited from the generous time and wisdom of RMI professionals who brought the dynamic world of risk and insurance to life From corporate risk and insurtech to enterprise risk in sports and aviation, these speakers delivered high-impact, real-world lessons that connect theory with practice, and passion with purpose.
HONOR ROLL
Tanya Ballinger, The Baldwin Group
Chris Black, Ask Fetch
John Churey, Amwins
Scott Fairbairn, Tampa Yacht & Country Club
Ian Greenway, LIG Marine Managers
Stephanie Horne, First Watch Restaurants
Patrick Kerby, The Baldwin Group
Elizabeth Krystyn, The Baldwin Group
Corbyn Lichon, The Baldwin Group
Aaron Madsen, Hartford Steam Boiler
Peggy Maguire, AdventHealth West Florida
Joey Masters, The Baldwin Group
Jay Miniati, Jay Miniati Actuarial Services
Arlind Mucaj, Verisk
Joe Neeley, RT Specialty
Chris Reyes, Tampa International Airport
Robert Tran, Tampa Bay Buccaneers of Classroom Speakers
PARTNERS IN PRACTICE
Clockwise, top left: FAIA Workforce Summit, hosted at USF; YRP - North Florida chapter student reception and Spotlight Speaker Series Panel; RAC Members Volunteering at Feeding Tampa Bay, with students
THE RISK ADVISORY COUNCIL - THE “RAC”
The Risk Advisory Council (RAC) continues to serve as a powerful driver behind the success and strategic growth of The Baldwin Group School of Risk Management and Insurance. The school is privileged to collaborate with a diverse network of industry partners who play an essential role in advancing its mission. The school relies on this group for student mentorship and support, program development, promotion of school initiatives both on and off campus, brand and social media amplification, and expert insights on industry trends that help shape curriculum and strategic direction.
These dedicated professionals invest more than their time they contribute their insight, professional networks, real-world experience, as well as financial resources to shape the future of RMI education at USF
New RAC Members
2024-2025
John Barfield
Thank you!
Thank you to outgoing RAC members for their exceptional service and impact.
EVP/Profit Center Leader, Braishfield
Mark Shealy CEO & Executive Director, FSLSO
Marc Salm
Vice President of Risk Management, Publix Super Markets
Dorothy Schrage (pictured)
Great American Insurance Group
Paul Palumbo (not pictured) Orchid Insurance
USF’s Risk Advisory Council
John Barfield | Braishfield Associates, Hull & Company
Austin Boyd | Boyd Insurance
Patrick Del Medico | Shepherd Insurance
David DeMott | Gridiron Insurance
Deb Franklin | Paychex
Michael Franzese | RT Specialty, LLC
Stephanie Horne | First Watch Restaurants
Elizabeth Krystyn | The Baldwin Group
Keith Mercier | CBIZ
Matt Ostrander | Ostrander Risk Partners
Benson Porter | UnitedHealthcare
Tonya Rivera | Johnson & Johnson, Inc.
Marc Salm | Publix Super Markets
Mark Shealy | Florida Surplus Lines Service Office
Tim Wenzel | Zenith Insurance Company
RMI 3004: A POWERFUL STRATEGY FOR GROWTH
The Principles of Risk Management, RMI 3004, a required course for all undergraduate business students at USF, allows the faculty to introduce risk management principles, techniques, to over 1,000 students each semester
A BRIDGE FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE
Why Risk Management Matters to Future Business Leaders
In today’s rapidly evolving world, future business leaders must be equipped with risk management skills to tackle dynamic challenges from disruptions driven by artificial intelligence to natural disasters and global economic uncertainty This course gives business students the tools to understand and apply risk management strategies that drive strategic objectives, enhance firm value, and strengthen resilience for businesses, families, and communities.
From day one, the school partnered with industry to build this course and to connect classroom learning with real-world application. These partnerships bring risk management to life for students while building a brand of service that resonates with internal and external stakeholders alike.
EMPOWERING STUDENTS FOR WHAT’S NEXT
Through the course, students prepare a plan to apply risk management concepts to achieve their career objectives. Some discover an unexpected passion and pursue the RMI major or minor unlocking The RMI Advantage, a powerful edge in a field where demand for talent far exceeds supply. Others choose to diversify their skill set to strengthen their long-term career resilience
GAMMA IOTA SIGMA | DELTA BETA CHAPTER
Since its founding, the Delta Beta chapter of Gamma Iota Sigma (GIS) has charted an extraordinary path of intentional growth and impact Membership is open to all students interested in risk. GIS provides the opportunity for students to learn through industry engagements and interactions. As the school and GIS continue to build experiential learning opportunities both nationally and internationally, the benefits of GIS membership for students become truly exceptional.
This timeline illustrates how Delta Beta has evolved from a handful of pioneering members into a nationally recognized chapter.
Begin in-person chapter meetings
Virtual Monthly Chapter Meetings
Introduce Industry Speakers, Experiential Learning and Community Service
4 members
Fall 2022
USF GIS Chapter, Delta Beta, is formed.
Spring 2023
9 members
54 members
Fall 2023
Attend industry events, LAAIA, SAIA, IATB, FAIA, Mariner’s Club
GISers in Munich!
100 members
Fall 2024
67 members
Spring 2023
National Awards: 1) Exclusive “Special Achievement” Award
2) Chapter Achievement Awards 3) Chapter of Excellence
Expand member recruiting process
Develop national-level member criteria
GISers in Munich and Cologne!
Fall 2025
Spring 2025
126 members
National Awards: 1) Chapter Achievement Awards 2) Chapter of Superior Distinction 3) Chapter President serving at national-level Student Advisory Council
Introduce Spotlight Speaker Series events
GISers in London!
Awarded the highest level distinction at Annual Conference: Chapter of Distinguished Distinction
Photo: President Law with USF’s Gamma Iota Sigma Officers, Spring 2024
GIS ADVANTAGE: WHERE EXPLORATION BEGINS
Throughout the year, this chapter engaged students in a range of purposeful activities designed to illuminate the opportunities within risk management and insurance. From industry site visits and national conferences to community service and career networking events, each experience was created to spark interest in the field, build professional skills, and inspire students to consider risk management as a meaningful and rewarding career path
Industry Connections
Spotlight Speaker Series
Industry Speakers
Experiential Learning Community Service
Humane Society
Feeding Tampa Bay
Meet the Employer Night (Career Fair)
Young Risk Professionals
Tampa and Ft. Lauderdale Mariners
Social
USF Football and Game Night
Excess and Surplus Lines (WSIA Student Symposium
2025 Risk World
Shepherd Insurance
The Baldwin Group Day
Tampa International Airport
December
2024
London: First Stop, the World Stage
Ten students traveled to the heart of the global insurance industry the London market for a two-day immersion that brought the theoretical to life. Thanks to the support of the Florida Surplus Lines Service Office, students stepped inside Lloyd’s of London and met with top professionals from Convex, Guy Carpenter, Markel, Decus, and Swiss Re. For many, it was a transformational introduction to the scale and sophistication of international risk.
May 2025
In another year of firsts, students participated in the insurtech product development seminar at the Cologne University of Applied Sciences. Led by Professor Torsten Oletzky, they collaborated with the German students to design and pitch digital insurance solutions in a “Shark Tank”-style finale. They also attended InsurNXT, Germany’s leading insurtech conference, for a firsthand look at industry innovation.
Students traveled to Munich for an enterprise risk management seminar hosted by the Munich Risk and Insurance Center at Ludwig Maximilians University. They worked with students from six countries in Europe and Asia. Through in-class case discussions and site visits with firms like Allianz, Munich Re, Swiss Re, Siemens, and BMW Financial Services, they gained real-world insight into how global companies manage complex risks.
Cologne: Insurtech Meets Innovation
Munich: ERM in Action
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE
Whether it is through conducting high-quality research, establishing key programs that create comparative advantage for the school and university, or developing the curriculum critical for educating the next generations of risk professionals, The Baldwin Group School of Risk Management and Insurance's goal is a consistent one lead through academic excellence.
Faculty are active contributors to academic and industry discourse. They regularly present their work at national and international academic conferences such as the American Risk and Insurance Association (ARIA) Annual Meeting, Financial Management Association (FMA) International Conference, and the Academy of Management Annual Meeting. They also present at national and regional industry conferences and summits.
The Spencer Educational Foundation utilizes a Principles of Risk Management course template developed by USF school faculty in its effort to expand risk management education at the university level nationwide.
Building on this course template, school faculty have created a cohesive and consistent educational experience across multiple RMI3004 sections and instructors as it moves to satisfy an anticipated demand of 1,500 students per semester.
School faculty began teaching the first sections of Insurance Data Analytics, a course that is now required by all students majoring in risk management and insurance.
School faculty proposed and received approval for a minor in Actuarial Science for business and non-business students
ime. reasure. alent.
PARTNERS WHO POWER OUR PROGRESS
At The Baldwin Group School of Risk Management and Insurance, philanthropy extends far beyond financial gifts. Our deepest gratitude goes to the generous individuals and organizations who give their time, treasure, and talent supporting the students, strengthening the school’s programs, and shaping the next generation of risk professionals.
This academic year, the Tampa Bay Mariners Club continued its longstanding support of the school’s mission with a $2,500 scholarship gift, while also expanding student awareness of career pathways in marine insurance.
Their partnership is a steady current moving us forward fueled by the dedication of champions, and former RAC member, Dorothy Schrage.
Thank you!
Elizabeth Krystyn led “The Herd Fund” challenge for USF Giving Week raising $25,000 with 63 unique donors joining the cause As the RAC’s chair, and co-founder of The Baldwin Group, she embodies the school’s spirit of leadership through action.
This year’s fundraising impact was especially meaningful thanks to the generosity of school supporters (> $5,000):
Florida Surplus Lines Service Office
Mr. and Mrs. Garrett Gardi
Spencer Educational Foundation
Ms. Elizabeth Krystyn and Mr. Enrique Fueyo
Amerisure Charitable Foundation
Latin American Association of Insurance Agencies
Mr. John D. Barfield
Universal Insurance Managers, Inc.
The Time, Treasure, and Talent philosophy is a movement lifting the school, the students, and its shared future.
Trendsetters!
With a 360 degree view of risk that connects with any business discipline, the school is working to build awareness of the many opportunities that result from the decision to “Put Risk in Your Future” for the RMI major or minor, or simply within that student’s major.
