Dr. Robert Hartwig Named First-Ever Smith & Mangum Distinguished Service Award Winner

SIR established a new award this year to honor the late Carol Smith from Progressive and Randy Mangum from USAA. Both individuals made significant industry contributions and served on the SIR board and committees. The Smith & Mangum Distinguished Service Award recognizes an insurance professional who has made distinguished contributions in the field of insurance research. This year's winner is Robert P. Hartwig, Ph.D., CPCU. Nominated for this award by SIR board member Jaimie Pickles, Dr. Hartwig has been the leading source on the pulse and outlook for all lines of insurance for many years and has contributed to SIR as a keynote speaker at our annual conference on at least 2 occasions. He speaks regularly at industry events and is head of the University of South Carolina's Risk Management School. His research and research methodologies are followed widely by industry research professionals. Throughout his career, Dr. Hartwig has consistently aligned with SIR's purpose in advocating for the insurance research profession, fostering the exchange of ideas and conducting research and educational activities that are widely followed by insurance research professionals at all stages of their careers (including students). His involvement in SIR has been invaluable, and his work is greatly appreciated by all he impacts.

Award Winners Announced at SIR Annual Membership Meeting

Each year at the SIR Annual Membership Meeting, the Society grants awards to individuals and companies that have made exemplary contributions to the organization. President's individual and organizational awards are granted by the sitting SIR President and recognize volunteers and organizations that have gone above and beyond in their support of SIR and during their service on SIR Committees. The CI Calls Top Contributor Award recognizes the member who frequently participates and provides value insights on the quarterly SIR Roundtable Calls. The Hopp/Budd Award is only granted to individuals whose contributions to SIR are truly exemplary. Please join us in congratulating this year's winners and thanking them for their contributions to SIR:

President's Individual Award - Lori Schoenenberger, Amerisure Insurance

For continuing to go above and beyond the call of duty as Annual Conference Co-chair, Marketing Committee member and Spring Workshop Committee member

President's Individual Award - Adrienne Kreger, American Financial Group

For her continued dedication and service to the Education Committee and Annual Conference Commercial Lines Track

President's Individual Award - Ron Zezza, Cigna

For his efforts to revitalize the Health track, recruit new members and increase engagement among health members

President’s Individual Award - Rich Skyba, Moda Health 

For his efforts to revitalize the Health track, recruit new members and increase engagement among health members

President’s Individual Award - Ashley Johnson, USAA

For presenting at the Spring Workshop, conducting all Innovation Study qualitative interviews, and presenting findings at the annual conference

President's Organization Award - American Family Insurance

For their legacy of leadership within SIR through the board and various committees as well as high member participation. Thank you for being one of SIR's most engaged member companies.

CI Calls Top Contributor Award - Ron Zezza, Cigna

In recognition of his consistent participation and contributions to the quarterly CI sharing calls serving as a great example to others

Hopp/Budd Award - Carrie Grahn, American Family Insurance

For her continued support of SIR events throughout the year and willigness to always take on new challenges. 

See the past Award Winners on Our History Page