Press Releases

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO David Chavern and National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA)—Nevada Political Action Committee Chair Jarod Morgan issued the following joint statement on the best interest annuity rule approved recently by the Legislative Review Committee and supported by the Nevada Division of Insurance:

NAIFA’s Lifetime Healthcare Center is presenting “The Peak 65 Series: Impact Day for Lifetime Healthcare,” a one-day virtual event, November 19, beginning at 11 am eastern. It features a dozen 20-minute TED Talk-like presentations covering timely topics on the financial implications of longevity and aging. Presenters include recognized thought leaders offering insights on long-term care, disability income, hybrid insurance products, Medicare, federal and state legislative and regulatory considerations, and more.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), which empowers financial professionals and consumers through world-class advocacy, education and differentiation, today announced a strategic partnership with Practice Intel, a data analytics and performance improvement platform to help advisory firms improve the quality of advice they deliver to their clients and drive organic growth in the process.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is proud to announce a new exclusive partnership with the Hoopis Performance Network (HPN) and LIMRA that will provide NAIFA members with access to the highly acclaimed Trustworthy Selling Program. Previously available only to enterprises, this partnership marks the first time the program, developed by LIMRA and HPN, will be accessible to individual NAIFA members.

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO Susan Neely and National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA)—Louisiana Chapter President Blake Gillies issued the following joint statement on the best interest annuity rule adopted by the Louisiana Department of Insurance:

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is thrilled to announce that Kathleen Owings has been named the 2024 Young Advisor Team Leader of the Year. This award celebrates outstanding leadership, dedication, and impact within the financial advisory industry, recognizing individuals who exemplify the highest standards of excellence.

Kathleen Owings, a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point in 2000, began her career as an active-duty officer in the Army Corps of Engineers, earning the Bronze Star for meritorious service in a combat zone. She served at Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Carson, Colorado; and overseas on multiple tours of duty.

Kathleen began her career in the financial services industry in 2007 and is one of the owners of Westbilt Financial Group in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She truly believes that being a financial advisor is her calling, not just a job. Kathleen is also the author of Put Your Money to Work: A Woman's Guide to Financial Confidence, empowering women to take control of their financial futures.

Financial Clarity by Design in Spencer, Wisconsin is a NAIFA 100% Agency

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is pleased to announce that Financial Clarity by Design in Spencer, Wisconsin has become a NAIFA 100% Agency. Under the membership program, Financial Clarity by Design has enrolled all its advisors as NAIFA members, enrolled them in NAIFA’s grassroots advocacy programs, and encourages them to participate in NAIFA as a group. Group members are proudly displayed to consumers on the consumer-facing financialsecurity.org site and members are listed in Life Happens’ “Find a Financial Service Professional” search at www.lifehappens.org.

NAIFA Announces E4 Insurance Services as the Recipient of the Inaugural Financial Security Champion of the Year Award 

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is proud to announce that E4 Insurance Services, led by Managing Partners Dan Peterson, LUTCF, LLIF, FIC, Brendon DeRouin, CLU, ChFC, LACP, RICP, and Steve Bergee, LACP, is the first recipient of the prestigious Financial Security Champion award. This accolade recognizes firms that have made significant investments and commitments to NAIFA membership and its mission to empower financial professionals and consumers through world-class advocacy and education.

The award will be presented during the Apex/National Leadership Conference at the historic Arizona Biltmore from September 19-21, 2024. This conference brings together industry leaders and professionals for a dynamic series of events, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to advance the financial services industry.

E4 Insurance Services, under the visionary leadership of its Managing Partners, has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the principles and goals of NAIFA. Through its innovative approach and dedication to professional development, E4 Insurance Services has set a new standard for excellence in the insurance and financial advisory sectors.

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO Susan Neely and NAIFA-Missouri President Craig Wright, MBA, CFP, ChFC, issued the following joint statement on the best interest annuity rule adopted today by the Missouri Department of Insurance:

NAIFA’s Committee on Governance has nominated John Wheeler, CFP, CLU, ChFC, CRPC, LACP, CLTC, LUTCF, Executive Senior Partner at Totus Wealth Management LLC in Houston, Texas, to be the 2025 NAIFA Secretary. Wheeler, who currently serves on NAIFA’s National Government Relations and IFAPAC Committees, is a past NAIFA-National Trustee and Past President of NAIFA-Illinois. He has been a loyal NAIFA member since 1973. As incoming Secretary, Wheeler will be in line to serve as President-Elect in 2026 and President in 2027.

The award recognizes NAIFA members who achieve extraordinary professional success before age 40 and will be awarded at the combined Apex and National Leadership Conference in September 2024.

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas has granted a request by NAIFA, ACLI, several NAIFA chapters, and other advocacy partners to stay the Department of Labor's fiduciary-only rule, stating that our case is "virtually certain to succeed on the merits." The action follows a similar stay issued Thursday by a different federal court in a similar case.

All of the firm’s advisors become NAIFA members and are poised to participate in NAIFA’s unmatched state and federal advocacy success under an agency-wide membership program.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is pleased to announce that Allstate The Goines Agency in Clarksville, Tennessee has become a NAIFA 100% Agency. Under the membership program, Allstate The Goines Agency has enrolled all of its advisors as NAIFA members, enrolled them in NAIFA’s grassroots advocacy programs, and encourages them to participate in NAIFA as a group. Group members are proudly displayed to consumers on the consumer-facing financialsecurity.org site and members are listed in Life Happens’ “Find a Financial Service Professional” search at www.lifehappens.org.

NAIFA is proud to announce that John M. Ruckel, LUTCF, a Financial Professional with MassMutual and owner of Ruckel Insurance and Financial Group in Nacogdoches, Texas, is the 2024 recipient of NAIFA’s Terry Headley Lifetime Defender Award.

Washington, D.C.—The American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI), National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), Finseca, Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) and National Association for Fixed Annuities (NAFA) issued the following statement on legislation passed by the U.S. House Appropriations Committee and the Education and the Workforce Committee to protect retirement savers from the Labor Department’s fiduciary-only regulation:
 
“The actions taken by the U.S. House Appropriations Committee and the Education and the Workforce Committee send a clear message that the Labor Department’s fiduciary-only regulation does not align with Congress’s efforts to expand retirement security for all Americans through the increased availability of lifetime income options. 
 
“In 2019 and 2022, Congress reaffirmed the importance of lifetime income when it passed legislation making it easier for employers to include annuities in workplace retirement plans. The fiduciary-only regulation is at odds with this progress. It restricts consumer access to professional financial guidance and options for protected lifetime income that annuities offer.

Washington, D.C.—The American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI), National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), Finseca, Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) and National Association for Fixed Annuities (NAFA) issued the following statement on legislation advanced today by the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, HHS, Education, and Related Agencies that would block funding for the Labor Department’s fiduciary-only regulation:

NAIFA is proud to announce the launch of the new digital edition of the Journal of Financial Service Professionals (JFSP) that offers a range of innovative features designed to enhance the reader experience. This exciting development not only makes the JFSP more accessible and interactive to NAIFA members but also supports sustainability efforts by reducing NAIFA’s carbon footprint.

NAIFA is proud to announce that Matthew S. Tassey, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, is the recipient of the 84^th annual John Newton Russell Memorial Award. The award is the highest honor accorded by the insurance industry to a living individual who has rendered outstanding services to the institution of life insurance. The selection committee consists of representatives of 11 leading organizations in the life insurance and financial services industry. Tassey will be celebrated and formally presented the award at NAIFA’s Apex 2024 and Belong event Sept. 21 at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix.

Nine insurance trade associations filed a lawsuit today against the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to overturn a regulation limiting consumers' choice of financial professional and their access to retirement products that deliver protected lifetime income.

The American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI), National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), NAIFA-Texas, NAIFA-Dallas, NAIFA-Fort Worth, NAIFA-POET, Finseca, Insured Retirement Institute (IRI), and National Association for Fixed Annuities (NAFA) issued the following comments on their challenge to the DOL's harmful intervention in the retirement savings marketplace and its one-size-fits-all fiduciary standard obligation on effectively every financial professional who sells retirement products:

Asset-Map and NAIFA are co-hosting a webinar showcasing the new "Caring Conversation" stencil designed by Carroll Golden, author, speaker, and Executive Director of NAIFA's Centers of Excellence. Learn how to use this tool to have more comprehensive conversations with your clients and tackle tough topics such as long-term care with grace and ease.

Special Webinar on The Caregiving Conversation for FAs
When: Thursday, June 6th
Time: 2 pm eastern

Arlington, VA – The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is excited to announce the launch of the “Caring Conversation” Stencil, a new tool developed by Carroll Golden, Executive Director of NAIFA's Centers of Excellence. This revolutionary stencil is integrated into the Asset-Map software platform, enhancing the toolkit available to financial advisors. This innovation aims to provide advisors with the means to offer comprehensive financial planning solutions, encompassing short-term, long-term, and extended care scenarios.

The “Caring Conversation” Stencil has been crafted with precision to assist advisors in mapping out all possible financial implications of caregiving scenarios. This tool allows for a more holistic approach to financial planning by addressing the specific needs related to caregiving, a critical aspect often overlooked in traditional financial planning processes.

Carroll Golden, the architect of the “Caring Conversation” Stencil and a prominent figure in caregiving financial planning, commented on the release, "With the growing need for specialized financial advice in the context of caregiving, it became essential to provide a tool that empowers advisors to address these unique challenges comprehensively. The “Caring Conversation” Stencil is designed to seamlessly integrate into the existing framework of Asset-Map’s software, ensuring that advisors can provide targeted guidance efficiently and effectively."

Asset-Map, known for its innovative financial planning software, will now feature the “Caring Conversation” Stencil as a part of its platform. This inclusion aims to facilitate advisors in delivering personalized and precise financial planning strategies that account for the complexities of caregiving. The stencil enhances advisors' ability to visualize and manage their clients' financial landscapes, considering the potential financial impact of caregiving responsibilities.

NAIFA is hosting the 11^th annual Congressional Conference May 20-21 at the JW Marriott in Washington, D.C. The event will feature targeted advocacy training with briefings on legislative issues that affect members’ businesses, clients, and communities. Washington insiders will offer best practices for conducting Congressional meetings and tips for developing impactful long-term relationships with legislators.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is thrilled to announce a new strategic partnership with Brookstone Capital Management, a leading financial advisory firm based in Wheaton, IL. The partnership was formalized earlier this year and will be launched through Brookstone’s participation in NAIFA’s upcoming Congressional Conference to be held May 20-21, 2024 in Washington, D.C.

As part of the partnership agreement, Brookstone Capital Management will join NAIFA’s member benefits program and be recognized as a sponsor of NAIFA’s Center of Excellence. Derek Gubala, Director of Business Development, will join the Center’s Advisory Group and provide expert feedback for NAIFA’s Legislative Working Group. Additionally, the two organizations will mutually support events, publications, and thought leadership initiatives.

The Department of Labor and the White House have released a final fiduciary-only rule after an astonishingly brief regulatory and review process and in spite of grave concerns expressed by NAIFA, members of Congress, and other stakeholders. Unless Congress or the courts intervene, the rule will force the vast majority of financial professionals offering retirement planning services and products into a fee-for-service model. It will deprive consumers of the valuable option of working with professionals operating under alternative models that may better meet their needs.

NAIFA has redesigned and relaunched the Life Underwriting Training Council Fellow (LUTCF®) program, a three-course training series for one of the most sought-after designations in the insurance industry. Since 1984, NAIFA’s LUTCF has prepared more than 70,000 insurance and financial professionals to excel in the industry and is often the first designation successful agents and advisors earn.

The Foundation for Financial Service Professionals has announced the recipients of the Kenneth Black Jr. Journal Author Awards for articles published in the Journal of Financial Service Professionals in 2023. Since 1988, the Foundation has recognized the top three articles published in a specific volume (six issues within the same calendar year) with these annual awards.

The administration’s final rules on short-term, limited-duration health insurance (STLDI) plans will restrict access to these policies that serve crucial needs of many American consumers. The plans, which have existed since the introduction of HIPAA-based rules nearly two decades ago, are designed to bridge the gap between comprehensive coverage options. They can be a great fit for those looking for individual coverage, waiting for the start of group plan enrollment, having gaps between different employment opportunities, or waiting for their next open enrollment opportunity.

NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Labor’s decision to advance its proposed “Retirement Security Rule” for review by the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

The Indiana Department of Insurance, led by Commissioner Amy Beard, has adopted a new rule that strengthens protections for consumers seeking lifetime income through annuities. Indiana is the 45^th state to adopt a measure that closely tracks the ‘best interest of consumer enhancements’ in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)  Suitability in Annuity Transactions Model Regulation. These new laws and regulations also align with the SEC’s Regulation Best Interest, providing consumers with comprehensive state and federal protections. Over 90% of Americans now live in a state that has adopted a best interest standard for annuities.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) hosted its second Women’s Financial Security Fly-In March 6-7 in Washington, D.C. The event, designed to encourage the political involvement of women financial professionals, featured a day of grassroots advocacy training, policy briefings, inspirational discussions, and networking. On the second day of the event, attendees from 15 different states went to Capitol Hill for meetings with lawmakers representing their home states and districts.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed legislation that incorporates the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) model for annuity transactions. NAIFA Kevin Mayeux, CAE, released the following statement:

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO Susan Neely and NAIFA-New Hampshire Past President Dawn Chambers issued the following joint statement on the best interest annuity rule adopted recently by the New Hampshire Insurance Department:

NAIFA is proud to announce the formation of its Industry Leadership Board (ILB) comprised of distinguished leaders within the insurance and financial services sector. This inaugural board brings together a select group of financial professionals dedicated to helping NAIFA members succeed in their businesses and serve their clients.

NAIFA and Stonewood Financial have completed a partnership agreement whereby Stonewood Financial will become part of NAIFA’s Business Performance Center that provides education and legislative debriefs to members on issues concerning practice management. Additionally, the two organizations will have a presence at organizational meetings and conferences, including NAIFA’s May Congressional Conference in Washington, D.C., and its September Apex educational event in Phoenix, Arizona, and Stonewood’s spring and fall Innovate Conferences in Louisville, Ky.

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO Susan Neely and NAIFA-Vermont President Tyler Wood issued the following joint statement on the best interest annuity rule adopted recently by the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation:

“A new rule adopted by the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation, led by Commissioner Kevin Gaffney, provides stronger protections to consumers seeking lifetime income through annuities. The rule enhances the standards financial professionals must follow and protects consumers' access to, and information about, annuities, the only financial product in the marketplace that can provide guaranteed income for life. 

NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, was named one of the “Top 10 Most Influential People in Insurance” by CIO Views magazine.

Among his achievements cited by the magazine is Mayeux’s leadership of NAIFA’s transformation into a modern, forward-looking association. Under his guidance, NAIFA has revamped its bylaws and unified as One NAIFA with a strong national presence and revitalized state chapters working together with local chapters to best serve the needs of financial professionals and consumers. He managed this transformation began in 2019 while navigating additional challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

John D. Richardson, RICP, LACP, has received the 2023 President’s Citation from the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) for his extraordinary service to the association.

The NAIFA President’s Citation recognizes an association member who exemplifies NAIFA leadership and has gone above and beyond in their support for NAIFA and the industry. NAIFA’s 2023 President Bryon Holz selected Richardson to receive the President’s Citation to acknowledge his exemplary work in political advocacy and membership recruitment. The award was presented at NAIFA’s National Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., in December.

NAIFA is pleased to announce that Suzanne Carawan is NAIFA’s Vice President, Membership and will lead a newly created department focused on creating exceptional member value and increased engagement in NAIFA’s core areas of advocacy, education, and volunteer leadership. She and her team will develop strategies and implement tactics to deliver NAIFA’s value proposition to an expanded pool of financial professionals that now call NAIFA home due to the recent merger with the Society of Financial Service Professionals.

ARLINGTON, VA -- The U.S. Department of Labor released its final independent contractor rule today, aimed at defining whether an individual is an employee or an independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act. The rule could threaten the classification of many financial advisors from coast to coast and cause a reduction in the number of advisors serving American consumers.

NAIFA conducted a survey of more than 1,000 members between November 27 and December 1, 2023, to gauge the potential effects of the U.S. Department of Labor’s proposed “Retirement Security Rule: Definition of an Investment Advice Fiduciary” on the consumers who rely on financial professionals for retirement products, services, and advice.

The Department of Labor thinks it knows what's best for Americans preparing for retirement. NAIFA President Bryon Holz, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, CASL, LACP, and his long-time client Chuck Ross think the DOL is wrong and bring their real-life experience to the argument.

NAIFA has formally elected its officers and Board of Trustees at its annual business meeting as part of the National Leadership Conference and Belong awards celebration in Washington, D.C.

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO Susan Neely and National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors’ (NAIFA)—Utah Government Relations Chair Dori Phillips, issued the following joint statement on the best interest annuity rule adopted recently by the Utah Insurance Department:

More than 250 NAIFA members took to Capitol Hill today to meet with over 200 Congressional offices to advance the need to protect the worker classification of financial service professionals as independent contractors and to provide consumers a variety of choices in financial service professionals. The Day on the Hill was coupled with NAIFA’s National Leadership Conference which serves to train the leaders of state and local chapters in grassroots advocacy.

NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, issued the following statement on the proposed Department of Labor fiduciary rule expected to be made public later today:

NAIFA is pleased to announce that Brian Steiner has rejoined NAIFA as the Executive Director of Life Happens, the consumer arm of the association. Steiner previously served as NAIFA’s Vice President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships from 2015-2021 and most recently as President of United Wealth Advisors Group.

Joseph Schreck, CPFA, President at the Piedmont Group in Atlanta, GA, is the NAIFA Young Advisor Team Leader of the Year for 2023.  

NAIFA congratulates the newly elected Speaker of the House of Representatives Mike Johnson and looks forward to working with him on legislative matters that impact the financial security of Americans and the ability of insurance and financial professionals to serve their clients’ best interests.

NAIFA hosted its inaugural regional conference based on its national conference named Apex –  Apex East – October 24 at its association headquarters building in Arlington, VA. Apex East is a regional spin-off of the Apex conference that was launched in August 2022 and will be held again in Arizona in September 2024.

Advisor Today, the official publication of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), is pleased to announce the winners of its 2023 4 Under 40 awards: Matthew Cloutier, CRC, RFC, of Golden Wealth Solutions (Osaic) in Littleton, CO, loyal member since 2022; Jennifer Lewis of Wise Medicare Insurance Solutions (United Healthcare) in Rolla, MO, loyal member since 2022; Joseph Spinelli, CLU, FICF, LUTCF, of the Jim Spinelli Agency (Knights of Columbus) in Tallahassee, FL, loyal member since 2009; and Mike Paffhausen, of the Paffhausen Insurance Agency (State Farm) in Butte, MT, loyal member since 2015. 

Winona Havir, CPCU, CLF, LUTCF, FSS, LACP, AIC, Executive Vice President, Business Development for Educators Insurance Resources Services, Inc. (The Horace Mann Companies), in Saint Paul, MN, has been recognized as the NAIFA Diversity Champion for 2023. 

NAIFA is proud to announce that John A. Davidson, LUTCF, FSS, President and CEO of Davidson Insurance & Financial Services, Inc., in Moorpark, CA, is the 2023 recipient of NAIFA’s Terry Headley Lifetime Defender Award.

NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, told the Biden Administration in a meeting that the Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) current efforts to revive a fiduciary-only regulation for financial professionals is unnecessary and likely to harm low- and middle-income consumers.

NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, told the Biden Administration in a meeting that the Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) current efforts to revive a fiduciary-only regulation for financial professionals is unnecessary and likely to harm low- and middle-income consumers.

NAIFA’s Committee on Governance has nominated Christopher L. Gandy, LACP, Founder of the Midwest Legacy Group in Lisle, IL, to be the 2024 NAIFA Secretary. A current member of NAIFA’s Board of Trustees, Gandy has been a loyal NAIFA member since 2003. As incoming Secretary, Gandy will be in line to serve as President-Elect in 2025 and President in 2026.

NAIFA and Sales Activity Management, Inc. (SAM) have completed an educational and affinity partnership agreement, under which the popular SAM Planner can be obtained by NAIFA members at a preferred rate. Additionally, Sales Activity Management, Inc. will become a sponsor of NAIFA’s Talent Development Center of Excellence to collaborate on blog posts, webinars, and other tools focused on enhancing individual advisor/agent performance.

Kevin Mayeux, CEO of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), issued the following statement on the Department of Labor’s beginning of the regulatory process to propose a fiduciary-only rule:

Three best-in-class associations will integrate operations to amplify their impact on advocacy and education for financial service professionals and promote financial wellness for American consumers.

The National Association of Insurance and FinancialAdvisors(NAIFA), the Society of Financial Service Professionals (FSP), and Life Happens announced plans to come together as one organization, pending membership approval. The expanded organization will retain all three brands under the NAIFA umbrella and leverage each organization’s strengths to create a greater impact on the industry, financial service professionals, and consumers. The integrated organization aims to empower financial professionals and consumers through world-class advocacy and education. The merger will take place following a vote of the membership of each organization, expected to be early this fall.

 “NAIFA is excited to formally welcome FSP and Life Happens into our family where we collectively can better leverage our unique talents and resources and do more together. FSP will now be able to provide its top-notch education and training to an even broader base of professionals and Life Happens will continue to be the leader in consumer awareness for the importance of life insurance and other risk protection products,” stated Kevin Mayeux, CAE, Chief Executive Officer of NAIFA. “Being able to work together as one organization will expand our reach in the industry, help us better serve financial professionals, and increase the impact we have on helping all Americans have a secure financial future.”

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO Susan Neely and NAIFA-Oklahoma President Whitney Jessee issued the following joint statement on the best interest annuity rule adopted recently by the Oklahoma Insurance Department:

NAIFA is proud to announce Joseph W. Jordan, inspirational speaker, behavioral finance expert, best-selling author, and one of the founders of the Insured Retirement Institute (IRI), is the recipient of the 82nd annual John Newton Russell Memorial Award. The award is the highest honor accorded by the insurance industry to a living individual who has rendered outstanding services to the institution of life insurance. The selection committee consists of representatives of the nine leading organizations in the life insurance and financial services industry. Jordan will be celebrated and formally presented the award at NAIFA’s National Leadership Conference and Belong event in Washington, D.C., on December 4.

NAIFA's Apex East conference is a pure-play sales summit that brings together high-performing producers and their colleagues in the financial services industry, including professionals in the fields of estate planning law, accounting, financial technology, performance coaching, wellness, and others.

August is In-District Meetings month at NAIFA.

Every August, Congress recesses, allowing Senators and Representatives to spend a few weeks working from their home states and districts. Things slow to a crawl in our nation’s capital but they really heat up in Congressional districts across the country. It’s an opportunity NAIFA does not pass up.

Congress has begun its August recess, and members of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) are capitalizing on lawmakers’ annual working session in their home districts by meeting with their Representatives and Senators to strengthen grassroots relationships and discuss issues important to financial professionals and their clients.

NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, is one of eight newly named association executives named to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Association Committee of 100, also known as the C100. Mayeux will represent the interests of NAIFA members within the C100 by building partnerships and seeking common ground with other associations facing similar public policy issues. The C100 works together to "enhance the U.S. Chamber's pro-business advocacy and coalition work and strengthen Chamber efforts to fight for American business," according to a press release issued by the organization.

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO Susan Neely and National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors NAIFA-Oregon President Kym Housley issued the following joint statement on legislation signed into law in Oregon that strengthens safeguards for annuity consumers:

ACLI President and CEO Susan Neely and NAIFA-Florida President Jeff Chernoff issued the following joint statement on legislation signed into law in Florida that strengthens protections for annuity consumers:

NAIFA recognizes Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina on the announcement of his campaign to run for President of the United States. Scott is a former NAIFA member and prior to serving in Congress was an insurance and financial services professional who built one of the most successful Allstate agencies in South Carolina.

NAIFA will host the 10^th annual Congressional Conference May 22-23 in Washington, D.C. The event will feature targeted advocacy training with briefings on legislative issues that affect members’ businesses and the clients they serve. Expert presenters will offer best practices for conducting Congressional meetings and tips for developing impactful long-term relationships with legislators.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is pleased to announce its move to a new headquarters location in Arlington, Virginia. The new headquarters will be located at 1000 Wilson Boulevard in Suite 1890 aptly named for the year that NAIFA was founded.

The move is another milestone in NAIFA’s transformation that began in 2019 with the membership’s vote to restructure the association. The new headquarters’ proximity to Capitol Hill will facilitate more interaction between members and legislators while also providing ample space for training events and conferences.

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO Susan Neely and NAIFA-Washington President Karl Kuntz issued the following joint statement on legislation signed into law in Washington that strengthens protections for annuity consumers:

“The new law sponsored by Representative Kristine Reeves, approved by the legislature, and signed by Governor Jay Inslee strengthens protections for consumers in Washington state seeking lifetime income through annuities.

 The leading association and most influential advocacy association in the financial services industry undertakes a multitude of events in celebration of Women’s History Month

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) has undertaken a series of events this month to raise awareness of the importance of women’s economic security in our country, as well as to highlight the importance of the voice of women financial advisors in their voting districts. The series of events was created as part of NAIFA’s participation in Women’s History Month and to deliver on several aspects of its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiative that is part of its 2025 Strategic Plan.

Tuesday, April 4, 2022 | 12 noon eastern

The Q2 State of NAIFA will feature association President Bryon Holz, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, CASL, LACP, and CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, updating all interested stakeholders on how NAIFA is serving members and the insurance and financial services industry. They will also outline the association’s progress toward meeting goals established by the NAIFA 2025 Strategic Plan. The program will feature a legislative and regulatory update by NAIFA Senior Vice President for Government Relations Diane Boyle.

"It is with deeply saddened hearts that we say goodbye to our Father and Husband, Terry K. Headley in Melbourne Beach, Florida on March 18, 2023. Terry's passion was IFAPAC, and Terry would want any memorials directed to IFAPAC. Terry and I treasured all the support and friendships over the years. Thank You. There will be a Private Family Remembrance of Terry in Florida."

-- Wynetta Headley and Family

NAIFA is sad to inform our members, partners, and friends that NAIFA Past President Terry K. Headley, LUTCF, FSS, LIC, passed away March 18, in Melbourne Beach, Florida. A loyal NAIFA member since 1974, Terry was a legend in the insurance and financial services industry. He was the Founder and President of Headley Financial Group in LaVista, Nebraska.

NAIFA's California chapter is holding its annual Legislative Day in Sacramento on March 29. The event will feature visits with lawmakers by NAIFA-CA members, during which they will discuss SB 263, a legislative proposal that in its current form would harm the ability of insurance agents and brokers to serve the public. 

NAIFA is proud to announce that Advisorist has joined NAIFA in supporting the Talent Development Center to raise awareness of their respective brands and promote membership and participation in their respective organizations.

Led by CEO Jeremiah Desmarais, Advisorist is a group dedicated to helping insurance and financial advisors generate qualified leads and appointments to help their businesses grow. Under the partnership, Advisorist will feature six NAIFA members in their live weekly Virtual Advisor Power Hour (VAPH) workshops in 2023. NAIFA will promote the VAPH and Advisorist through social media and marketing efforts. 

The premier association for agents and advisors in the United States encourages diversity, equity, and inclusion in the insurance and financial services industry and promotes financial security for all Americans.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is pleased to announce NAIFA’s 8th Annual Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Symposium on May 22, 2023, in Washington, D.C. Presented by NAIFA’s Talent Development Center, the Symposium will focus on the importance of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the insurance and financial services industry to provide opportunities for financial security to all Americans. 

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO Susan Neely and National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA)-Georgia President Joe Schreck issued the following joint statement on the best interest annuity rule adopted recently by Georgia’s Insurance Department:

“A new rule adopted by Georgia’s Insurance Department and Commissioner John King strengthens protections for Peach State consumers seeking lifetime income from annuities.

A new rule adopted recently by the Illinois Department of Insurance provides greater safeguards for consumers seeking lifetime income from annuities. Illinois is the 32^nd state to adopt a measure that implements the “best interest of consumer enhancements” in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)  Suitability in Annuity Transactions Model Regulation.  The new laws and regulations also align with the SEC’s Regulation Best Interest.

A NAIFA comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) submitted comments suggesting changes to the CMS proposed rule titled ”2024 Notice of Benefits and Payment Parameters,” published in the Federal Register on December 21, 2022.  

This proposed rule includes proposed payment parameters and provisions related to the HHS-operated risk adjustment and risk adjustment data validation programs, as well as proposed 2024 user fee rates for issuers offering qualified health plans (QHPs) through Federally-facilitated Exchanges (FFEs) and State-based Exchanges on the Federal platform (SBE-FPs).

The firms' advisors join the #1 professional association for financial security professionals and prepare to participate in NAIFA’s unmatched state and federal advocacy success under an agency-wide membership program.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is pleased to announce that Bryon Holz & Associates in Brandon, FL, has become a NAIFA 100% Agency. Under the membership program, all advisors within Bryon Holz & Associates became NAIFA members and active participants in NAIFA’s grassroots advocacy programs at the state and federal levels.

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO Susan Neely and NAIFA-TN President Scott Flowers issued the following joint statement on the best interest annuity rule adopted recently by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance:

“The new rule adopted by Director Carter Lawrence and the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance advances important consumer safeguards and adds to the nationwide push for enhanced protections for annuity consumers.

“Tennessee becomes the 31st state to adopt the ‘best interest of consumer enhancements’ in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Suitability in Annuity Transactions Model Regulation. These new laws and regulations also harmonize with the SEC’s Regulation Best Interest. They enhance the standards financial professionals must follow while safeguarding retirement savers’ access to, and information about, annuities, the only financial product in the marketplace that can provide guaranteed income for life. 

“Unlike a fiduciary-only approach, these measures ensure that all savers, particularly financially vulnerable middle-income Americans, can get information about different choices for long-term security in retirement. A recent survey finds that middle-income retirement savers would be very concerned about a regulation keeping them from accessing the professional financial guidance they want and need.

“The U.S. Congress reaffirmed the importance of lifetime income when it passed legislation in 2019 and 2022 that made it easier for employers to include annuities in workplace retirement plans. These protections safeguard consumers while also ensuring that middle- and working-class families will retain access to easy-to-understand financial information.

“We hope that other states will follow Tennessee and implement these sensible protections so that more consumers can benefit from a best interest standard of care, no matter where they live.”

The NAIFA Foundation for Financial Security is pleased to announce that Gregory Jean Baptiste and Brooke Bastiaans-Brooks are recipients of the inaugural NAIFA Foundation Diversity Scholarship.

Jean Baptiste holds a bachelor’s degree in business management with an emphasis in finance from Brigham Young University-Idaho and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in financial planning and analytics at Utah Valley University. A first-generation Haitian immigrant, Jean Baptiste knows the value of a solid financial plan and is motivated to help all Americans achieve financial security. He is currently employed at a Wells Fargo branch in Lindon, UT.

NAIFA and Women in Insurance & Financial Services (WIFS) have agreed to continue to work closely together and support their mutual goals in the areas of professional development; diversity, equity, and inclusion; and political advocacy. The two associations have signed an expanded partnership agreement. Under the agreement, NAIFA and WIFS share resources and NAIFA represents WIFS’s political advocacy interests.

Passage of the Registered Index-Linked Annuities (RILA) Act and the SECURE Act 2.0 as part of the 2023 Omnibus Appropriations bill greatly benefits consumers as well as the insurance financial professionals who help them prepare for retirement and achieve financial security. The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) has strongly advocated on behalf of both pieces of legislation.

“With this bipartisan legislation, Congress makes it easier for Americans to prepare for retirement and gives them greater access to innovative annuity products that guarantee lifetime income while offering some protections from market volatility,” said NAIFA President Lawrence Holzberg, LUTCF, LACP. “SECURE 2.0 will also make it easier for more companies to offer retirement plans for their employees. Preparing for a secure retirement is a vital part of any financial plan and receiving a guaranteed lifetime income can be an important part of that plan for many consumers. It’s great to see strong advocacy efforts by NAIFA, our members, and our advocacy partners pay off with a great win for consumers.”

NAIFA would like to congratulate newly elected National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) elect officers for 2023:

• President: Missouri Insurance Director Chlora Lindley-Myers. Chlora Lindley-Myers was confirmed as the director of the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance on April 13, 2017.

A comment letter submitted by NAIFA President Lawrence Holzberg, LUTCF, LACP, on behalf of the association to the U.S. Department of Labor urges the department to provide an exemption or carve-out for financial professionals in a proposed rule on employee or independent contractor classification under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) President and CEO Susan Neely and NAIFA-MA President Josh O’Gara issued the following joint statement on the best interest annuity rule adopted recently by the Massachusetts Division of Insurance:

“The new rule adopted by the Massachusetts Division of Insurance adds to the nationwide drive for enhanced protections for consumers seeking lifetime income through annuities.

Dennis Cuccinelli, LACP, an Independent Advisor associated with Certified Financial Services from Paramus, NJ, has received NAIFA's inaugural Annual Membership Hard Hat Award. He was presented the award by current NAIFA President Lawrence Holzberg, LUTCF, LACP, and incoming 2023 President Bryon Holz, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, CASL, LACP, November 14 in Washington, D.C., at NAIFA’s Belong awards celebration that was part of the National Leadership Conference.

NAIFA President Lawrence Holzberg, LACP, LUTCF, is pleased to announce that Adam Sachs, CFP®, CLU®, ChFC®, CLTC, AIF®, a Financial Advisor with Centinel Financial Group, LLC, in Needham, MA, is the recipient of the inaugural 2023 NAIFA President’s Citation.

Holzberg presented the citation to Sachs on November 14 at NAIFA’s Belong awards celebration at the Omni Shoreham in Washington, D.C. in front of over 300 NAIFA members.

NAIFA members, in Washington, D.C., for NAIFA’s National Leadership Conference, went to Capitol Hill to participate in more than 150 in-person meetings with members of Congress and their staff.

NAIFA is proud to share that long-time partner and champion Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation was named #1 in the 2022 Top Workplaces USA, in an award issued by Energage. Fairway also took the top spot in 2021 as the top-ranked winner for a company with over 2,500 employees.

NAIFA is pleased to announce that Charmell Davis, CMP, is NAIFA’s new Vice President of Member Advancement. In this role, she leads NAIFA’s newly created Member Advancement team and reports to CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE. The Member Advancement team combines many of the functions of NAIFA’s former Professional Development and Professional Credentials Departments under Davis’s direction.

Christopher Gandy, LACP, Founder of Midwest Legacy Group in Lisle, IL, and the top-ranked producer for OneAmerica, has been recognized as the NAIFA Diversity Champion for 2022.

Gandy, a loyal NAIFA member since 2003, serves on NAIFA’s Board of Trustees, is a Past President of NAIFA-Chicagoland, and is a Co-Chair of NAIFA’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council. He was also a member of the NAIFA 2025 Strategic Planning Committee, which developed the NAIFA 2025 strategic plan with a goal of increasing DEI in the association and industry. After four years as a student-athlete at the University of Illinois and playing several seasons of professional basketball for the Chicago Bulls and the San Antonio Spurs as well as in L’Hermaine, France, Gandy entered the insurance and financial services profession in 1999.

Members of NAIFA’s New York chapter (NAIFA-NY) held a virtual meeting with officials from the state Department of Financial Services (DFS). State President Gary Cappon, CLU, LUTCF, RICP, FSCP, CLTC, provided introductions and a brief rundown of NAIFA’s advocacy work and support for the agent and advisor community and the consumers they serve. He also discussed challenges with financial product availability in the state. President-Elect Vinny Dallo, ChFC, CLU, CLTC, LUTCF, and Vice President of Advocacy Paul Sciacca presented “A Day in the Life of a Financial Professional,” highlighting how NAIFA members serve families and businesses in the state.

Jeff Chernoff, M.S., LUTCF, LACP, Vice President of Insurance and Trust in Tampa, FL, is the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) Young Advisor Team Leader of the Year for 2022.

Chernoff is the President-Elect of NAIFA-FL and has been a loyal NAIFA member since 2011. He is a graduate of NAIFA’s Leadership in Life Institute (LILI) and has remained active in the program, serving as a moderator of classes in Florida. He is a Past President of NAIFA-Tampa Bay and received that chapter’s Dick Cimino Distinguished Service Award in 2018 for his strong support of the chapter’s membership endeavors and public service projects.

Advisor Today is pleased to announce the winners of its 2022 4 Under 40 awards: Scott Blake, MBA, of Blake Wealth Partners (Northwestern Mutual) in Columbus, OH, loyal member since 2018; Eric Bottolfsen, MBA, of GoldBook Financial (MassMutual) in Scottsdale, AZ, loyal member since 2017; Matthew Daley, MBA, FSCP, LACP, LUTCF, of the Daley Agency (American National) in Miller Place, NY, loyal member since 2018; and Brett Moore, CFP, of RBM Wealth Management Group (LPL Financial) in Newnan, GA, loyal member since 2015.

NAIFA is proud to announce that Robert A. Miller, M.S., M.A., Partner at Miller-Pomerantz Insurance and Financial Services in New York City, is the recipient of NAIFA’s Terry Headley Lifetime Defender Award.

Miller, a loyal member since 1983, was NAIFA’s national President for the 2011-2012 term. He had previously served as President of the NAIFA-New York state chapter and NAIFA-New York City. He was elected to the NAIFA Board of Trustees in 2005 and has served as trustee liaison to the CEO Outreach Program, the Young Advisor Team, and the Corporate Partnerships Program. He also served as chair of the NAIFA Governance Committee and was a member of the NAIFA Finance Committee.

NAIFA Senior Vice President for Government Relations Diane Boyle appeared with other industry thought leaders on the National & Federal Insurance Perspective Panel at the Life Insurance Council of New York (LICONY) Annual Meeting and Planning Conference in Albany. She discussed with other panelists the top issues facing the insurance and financial services industry, the promotion of diversity and inclusion in the insurance sector, issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and NAIFA’s work with the American Council of Life Insurance (ACLI) to remove unnecessary barriers to recruiting new insurance professionals.

NAIFA is proud to announce Harry P. Hoopis, CLU, CHFC, Chief Executive Officer of the Hoopis Performance Network and a renowned entrepreneur, leader, and speaker is the recipient of the 81st annual John Newton Russell Memorial Award. The award is the highest honor accorded by the insurance industry to a living individual who has rendered outstanding services to the institution of life insurance. The selection committee consists of representatives of the nine leading organizations in the life insurance and financial services industry. NAIFA President Lawrence Holzberg, LUTCF, LACP, announced Hoopis’s selection during the 2022 Q4 State of NAIFA webinar. Hoopis will be celebrated and formally receive the award at NAIFA’s National Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., on November 14.

NAIFA congratulates Lisa Gomez on her confirmation as Assistant Secretary of Labor for the Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA).  

The NAIFA Family Response Fund is open to assist members of the association who suffer losses due to Hurricane Ian, which is expected to impact much of Florida as a potentially catastrophic storm. The Fund is also open to assist NAIFA members who suffered losses due to Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico and the federally declared Mississippi Water Crisis.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) and iLife Technologies have completed an educational partnership agreement to advance thought leadership and consumer education, and promote professional cooperation between the two organizations.

Under the partnership, iLife will provide exclusive benefits for NAIFA members through their all-in-one sales platform, content for NAIFA blog posts and social media platforms, as well as articles focused on helping insurance agents navigate the ever-increasing trend of online-centered businesses.

NAIFA Trustee Christopher Gandy, LACP, loyal member since 2003 and Founder of Midwest Legacy Group, is participating in a panel discussion at the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) 2022 Insurance Summit. The session, “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Producer Licensing,” is exploring how regulators and the insurance industry are addressing DEI issues in the distribution of insurance through pre-licensing and licensing exam procedures.

The Massachusetts Division of Insurance announced earlier this year that the state insurance licensing exam will now be offered in Spanish. NAIFA's Massachusetts chapter has been working with the Division of Insurance on this initiative and advocated for its adoption.

NAIFA is proud to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 - October 15. 

NAIFA’s Committee on Governance has nominated Douglas B. Massey, LUTCF, FSS, Owner of Doug Massey Financial Services in San Angelo, TX, to be the 2023 NAIFA Secretary. A current member of NAIFA’s Board of Trustees, Massey has been a loyal NAIFA member since 1987. As incoming Secretary, Massey will be in line to serve as President-Elect in 2024 and President in 2025.

NAIFA announces the launch of the Employee and Executive Benefits Center (EBC), the newest of NAIFA’s Centers for Excellence, at NAIFA’s Apex sales summit. The EBC is a community of agents, firms, carriers, and vendors that offers top-notch resources, innovative research, access to industry thought leaders, and opportunities for collaboration in the benefits space.

NAIFA’s Leadership in Life Institute (LILI) has received a 2022 Power of Associations Gold Award from ASAE, the Center for Association Leadership. The Power of Associations Awards honor “associations that go above and beyond their everyday mission to undertake initiatives that have far-reaching benefits important to their profession or industry.”

NAIFA’s Advisor Today magazine has launched a new Podcast series featuring outstanding NAIFA members and partners sharing their stories and answering questions about their own professional success. Their insights will offer practical ideas and inspire agents and advisors to reach their own levels of peak performance. Industry thought leaders featured on Advisor Today podcasts have a deep understanding of the insurance and financial services industry and what it takes to thrive in the profession.

NAIFA has opened access to the NAIFA Family Response Fund to assist members of the association impacted by devastating flooding in Kentucky that resulted in a federal disaster declaration covering many of the state’s counties. In addition to widespread flooding, severe storms, mudslides, and wind and tornado damage have resulted in significant property losses and fatalities.

Lifetime Financial Group Owner Jay Meneely has been a loyal NAIFA member since 1983. Now, his whole team benefits from NAIFA membership. 

Education First

Lifetime was founded on giving financial education workshops. As Meneely says, “We're an educational firm that specializes in the delivery of financial products.” Meneely and his team work with employers to educate employees about their group benefits.

The NAIFA Foundation for Financial Security, created by the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), aims to grow the number of ethical financial services professionals to better serve American households and small businesses. By increasing the pool of practicing advisors, the Foundation will advance financial literacy and promote financial security among all Americans with an emphasis on traditionally underserved and underrepresented populations.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is pleased to return in-person for our NAIFA’s 7th Annual Diversity Symposium on May 23, 2022, in Washington, D.C. Presented by NAIFA’s Talent Development Center, NAIFA’s 7th Annual Diversity Symposium will focus on the importance of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the insurance and financial services industry to provide opportunities for financial security to all Americans.

Increased demand for insurance products driven by raised awareness due to COVID-19 and a tight labor market.

New annualized premium for workplace life insurance, disability insurance and supplemental health products rose in 2021, according to LIMRA’s workplace benefits sales surveys.

Increased demand for insurance products driven by raised awareness due to COVID-19 and a tight labor market.

New annualized premium for workplace life insurance, disability insurance and supplemental health products rose in 2021, according to LIMRA’s workplace benefits sales surveys.

Apex is NAIFA’s new professional development signature event focused on providing top leadership, sales, and marketing ideas to financial services professionals. The new brand reflects the concept of a “race to the top” where only the top percent of advisors, and the aspiring top percent of advisors, gather to share and compare success stories. The inaugural Apex event will be August 17-18 at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix.

Apex is a completely redesigned pure-play professional development meeting. It features nationally known and highly regarded keynote speakers and educational sessions by top professionals and respected thought leaders in the insurance and financial services industry. Apex is also a premier networking event providing ample opportunities for top advisors to mingle, compare notes, and make valuable connections.

NAIFA is pleased to announce that Karla Kirk is NAIFA’s new Vice President of Growth and Revenue. In this role, she will be in charge of NAIFA’s business development, membership sales, and Centers of Excellence operations and will report to CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE. She will lead a business development and sales team focused on advancing NAIFA initiatives to grow membership and corporate non-dues revenue.

NAIFA and the Society of Financial Service Professionals (FSP) have entered into a new agreement to support the Advanced Practice Center (APC) as a resource for financial professionals and professionals from associated fields. The APC’s webinars, articles, special events, thought leadership content, and networking opportunities will focus on advanced markets topics and concepts, providing insights into complex cases.

NAIFA is now accepting nominations and applications for its 2022 awards, recognizing outstanding leadership, performance, and achievement that differentiates NAIFA members from their colleagues in the insurance and financial services industry. NAIFA bestows these annual awards as programs of the Talent Development Center, which recognizes exemplary NAIFA members, promotes professional growth, and encourages a new generation of agents and advisors to join the business.

The Intercompany Long-Term Care Insurance Conference (ILTCI 2022) is taking place March 21-23 in Raleigh, NC, with sessions featuring NAIFA thought leaders and a special NAIFA networking event. The ILTCI’s annual educational conference is for representatives of the long-term and extended care insurance community and other strategic allies, including providers, public policy institutions, professional organizations, federal, state, and local government agencies, and the public. Online registration for the event is open.

The Intercompany Long-Term Care Insurance Conference (ILTCI 2022) is taking place March 21-23 in Raleigh, NC, with sessions featuring NAIFA thought leaders and a special NAIFA networking event. The ILTCI’s annual educational conference is for representatives of the long-term and extended care insurance community and other strategic allies, including providers, public policy institutions, professional organizations, federal, state, and local government agencies, and the public. Online registration for the event is open.

Lawrence Holzberg, LUTCF, LACP, President of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) will be a featured speaker on Thursday, March 1, in St. Louis at the 2022 NAIFA-Missouri State Meeting. His remarks at the event will review the State of NAIFA and challenge insurance and financial professionals to be the best they can be as producers and as advocates for their businesses, association, and Main Street clients. 

Lawrence Holzberg, LUTCF, LACP, President of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) was a featured speaker Thursday, February 24, in Houston at the 2022 Annual State Conference of NAIFA’s Texas chapter. His remarks at the event reviewed the State of NAIFA and challenged insurance and financial professionals to be the best they can be as producers and as advocates for their businesses, association, and Main Street clients.

The Q1 State of NAIFA webinar featured NAIFA President Lawrence Holzberg, LUTCF, LACP, and CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, who updated the association’s stakeholders on how NAIFA is serving members and the insurance and financial services industry. They also outlined NAIFA’s progress towards meeting goals established by the NAIFA 2025 Strategic Plan. The program featured a legislative and regulatory update by NAIFA Senior Vice President for Government Relations Diane Boyle.

NAIFA has recognized more than 1,000 recipients of the 2021 NAIFA Quality Awards (NQA). NAIFA Quality Awards recognize the best of our membership, the hallmark of outstanding client care for advisors. Originally created in 1945 as the National Quality Award, the award focused on recognizing outstanding performance for life insurance agents. While the award has been updated and modernized, the NQA still adheres to its core foundation, to focus on quality of care and not only on production numbers.  

Apex is NAIFA’s new signature event focused on providing innovative sales and marketing ideas to financial services professionals who serve individuals, families, and small businesses across the United States. The new brand reflects the concept of a “race to the top” to target those advisors who seek continuous improvement in increasing production and providing financial security to more Americans. The inaugural Apex event will be August 16-18 at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix.

NAIFA and Chalice Network™ have completed an educational and affinity partnership agreement, under which Chalice Network will provide the Marketplace and Succession Link to NAIFA members. Additionally, Chalice Network and NAIFA will collaborate on blog posts, webinars, and other content within NAIFA’s Business Performance Center that focuses on agency and firm-level practice management.

NAIFA is pleased to announce that Wall Street Financial, Inc. in Carlinville, Marion, and Bloomington IL, and a location in Memphis, TN, has become a NAIFA 100% Agency. Under the membership program, Wall Street Financial, Inc has enrolled all of its advisors as NAIFA members and enrolled them in NAIFA’s grassroots advocacy programs.

NAIFA has announced that it will hold its 2022 Congressional Congress in-person May 23-24 in Washington, D.C. The event will feature targeted advocacy training with briefings on legislative issues that affect members’ businesses and the clients they serve. Expert presenters will offer best practices for conducting Congressional meetings and tips for developing impactful long-term relationships with legislators.

NAIFA is pleased to announce that its 2022 State Chapter Presidents have taken office as of January 1. State Presidents provide leadership for their states’ advocacy team, drive their states’ grassroots influence, build participation in NAIFA state legislative days and send state representatives to NAIFA’s annual Congressional Conference in Washington, D.C.

Lawrence Holzberg, LUTCF, LACP, Managing Director and Director of Insurance and Advance Sales, at Fortis Lux Financial, in Melville, NY, (loyal member since 1990) is the 2022 President of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA). Bryon Holz, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF, CASL, LACP, President of Bryon Holz & Associates in Brandon, FL, (loyal member since 1987) is President-Elect, Thomas M. Cothron, LUTCF, Agency Manager with Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company in Ocala, FL, (loyal member since 1981) is Secretary, and Brock Jolly, CFP, CLU, ChFC, CLTC, CASL, CFBS, of Veritas Financial LLC/MassMutual Financial Group in McLean, VA, (loyal member since 2001) is Treasurer. Thomas O. Michel, LACP, Managing Director of Michel Financial Group in Los Angeles (loyal member since 1986) will continue his service as Immediate Past President.

NAIFA has announced the completion of its 2021 Business Implementation Plan that is phase one of its 2025 Strategic Plan, and the release of its new Business Implementation Plan for 2022. The 2025 Strategic Plan builds on the NAIFA 20/20 plan penned in 2016 that navigated the organization through a complete restructure of its chapters and overhaul of its bylaws.

The winner of NAIFA-CA's Norman G. Levine Distinguished Service Award is Jill M. Judd, LUTCF, FSS, RICP. Judd is a Past President of NAIFA-CA and NAIFA-National. She has been a State Farm Agent serving her community in Capitola, California, for the past 20 years.

On December 6, 2021, NAIFA partner OneAmerica announced strategic leadership changes in its Individual Life and Financial Services (ILFS) line of business aimed at strengthening distribution, recruiting, and business development operations. By building upon its leadership core, the ILFS business is well-positioned to effectively execute on its distribution vision focused on accelerated growth and operational excellence.

New ILFS appointments include: 

• Chris Coudret, vice president, Career and Independent Brokerage 
• Kristin Dorm, vice president, Agency Growth and Development 
• David Junker, vice president, Business Development 

Jeff Levin, vice president, Care Solutions Distribution 

On December 6, 2021, OneAmerica announced strategic leadership changes in its Individual Life and Financial Services (ILFS) line of business aimed at strengthening distribution, recruiting, and business development operations. New ILFS appointments include:

NAIFA is proud to announce Robelynn H. Abadie, CAP™, CHRS, LUTCF, CSA, RFC, RDA™, Founder and Owner of Abadie Financial Services (AFS), LLC, an insurance and financial services agency in Baton Rouge, LA, is the recipient of the 80th annual John Newton Russell Memorial Award. The award is the highest honor accorded by the insurance industry to a living individual who has rendered outstanding services to the institution of life insurance. The selection committee consists of representatives of the nine leading organizations in the life insurance and financial services industry. Abadie received the award at NAIFA’s National Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., on December 6.

NAIFA is proud to announce that Robert M. Roach, CLU, ChFC, AEP, Partner at Roach McIntyre & Associates in Columbus, OH, and a Financial Representative with Northwestern Mutual since 1968, is the recipient of the inaugural Terry Headley Lifetime Defender Award.

Chad Cooper, MBA, a Financial Advisor with Gateway Insurance & Financial Services in Albuquerque, NM, has been recognized as NAIFA’s 2021 Diversity Champion.

Cooper, a loyal NAIFA member since 2018, began his career in financial services in Albuquerque in 2003, focusing his outreach and prospecting in the city’s small African American community. He saw a need for financial literacy training and worked with his firm to develop a program of monthly seminars on the financial concerns of African Americans. Today, his clients include all segments of Albuquerque’s diverse population, including members of its large Hispanic and Native American populations. He continues to offer a financial literacy program to lower-income residents through the African American Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce (AAGACC) and a grant from the Kellogg Foundation.

Brian Haney, CLTC, CFBS, CIS, CFS, CAE, LACP, Founder and Vice President of the Haney Company in Silver Spring, MD, is the NAIFA Young Advisor Team Leader of the Year for 2021.

Haney is a member of NAIFA-Greater Washington, D.C., and has served on the chapter’s Board for more than seven years. He is the current NAIFA-GWDC Young Advisor Team (YAT) Chair and a Past President of the chapter. He has chaired several other NAIFA-GWDC committees and served on the Board of NAIFA-MD. He is a 2015 graduate of NAIFA’s Leadership in Life Institute (LILI) and serves as a LILI Moderator.

Advisor Today, the official publication of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), is pleased to announce that Steven Walker of Gate City Insurance in Fargo, ND, loyal member since 2009, is a winner of a 2021 Four Under Forty award. Additional winners this year are J. Cal Anderson, CFP, CLU, of Ameriprise Financial in Alpharetta, GA, loyal member since 2008; Joanna Dellosa, LUTCF, FSS, RICP, LACP, CLU, of Wilshire Group Financial Services in Los Angeles, loyal member since 2012; and Rebecca Schulter, LUTCF, of UCL Financial Group in Memphis, TN, loyal member since 2015.

Advisor Today, the official publication of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), is pleased to announce that Rebecca Schulter of UCL Financial Group in Memphis, TN, loyal member since 2015, is a winner of a 2021 Four Under Forty award. Additional winners this year are J. Cal Anderson, CFP, CLU, of Ameriprise Financial in Alpharetta, GA, loyal member since 2008; Joanna Dellosa, LUTCF, FSS, RICP, LACP, CLU, of Wilshire Group Financial Services in Los Angeles, loyal member since 2012; and Steven Walker, LUTCF, of Gate City Insurance in Fargo, ND, loyal member since 2009.

Advisor Today, the official publication of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), is pleased to announce that Joanna Dellosa, LUTCF, FSS, RICP, LACP, CLU, of Wilshire Group Financial Services in Los Angeles, loyal member since 2012, is a winner of a 2021 Four Under Forty award. Additional winners this year are J. Cal Anderson, CFP, CLU, of Ameriprise Financial in Alpharetta, GA, loyal member since 2008; Rebecca Schulter of UCL Financial Group in Memphis, TN, loyal member since 2015; and Steven Walker, LUTCF, of Gate City Insurance in Fargo, ND, loyal member since 2009.

Advisor Today, the official publication of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA), is pleased to announce that J. Cal Anderson, CFP, CLU, of Ameriprise Financial in Alpharetta, GA, loyal member since 2008 is a winner of a 2021 Four Under Forty award. Additional winners this year are Joanna Dellosa, LUTCF, FSS, RICP, LACP, CLU, of Wilshire Group Financial Services in Los Angeles, loyal member since 2012; Rebecca Schulter of UCL Financial Group in Memphis, TN, loyal member since 2015; and Steven Walker, LUTCF, of Gate City Insurance in Fargo, ND, loyal member since 2009.

NAIFA and LifeSecure have completed an educational partnership agreement to advance thought leadership and consumer education and promote professional cooperation between the two organizations. Under the partnership, LifeSecure will provide content for NAIFA blog posts and social media platforms, as well as articles for NAIFA’s Advisor Today.

NAIFA and LifeSecure have completed an educational partnership agreement to advance thought leadership and consumer education and promote professional cooperation between the two organizations. Under the partnership, LifeSecure will provide content for NAIFA blog posts and social media platforms, as well as articles for NAIFA’s Advisor Today.

NAIFA is a proud member of the Coalition for Equity in Wholesaling, a group founded by Equitable to increase the number of diverse professionals in the role of insurance wholesaler. The initial focus of the coalition “is on the Black community, which will inform its work and serve as a blueprint as it scales a repeatable model that will ultimately be used to benefit all diverse communities.”

NAIFA congratulates the members who earned the Life and Annuity Certified Professional (LACP) certification during the July testing window:

Rodrigo Menendez, MBA, CRPC, LACP, has been a NAIFA member since 2011. He began his career with State Farm in 2011, taking over a book of business from a retiring 30-year veteran of the insurance industry. He was recruited by a family friend who was looking for Spanish-speaking agents.  

Early on, Menendez could tell it was the right fit for him. The most important thing in Menendez’s work, he says, is helping people. He builds relationships with his clients and their families that last years. “Being able to provide them some sense of relief, financially, in a situation when they’re grieving - I think that's one of the reasons we focus on life insurance so much in my agency,” he explains. 

NAIFA is pleased to announce that Retirement Council, Inc., in Coral Springs, FL, has become a NAIFA 100% Agency. Under the membership program, Retirement Council, Inc., has enrolled all of its advisors as NAIFA members and enrolled them in NAIFA’s grassroots advocacy programs.

NAIFA is pleased to announce that NetWorth Asset Management in Lansdale, PA, has become a NAIFA 100% Agency. Under the membership program, NetWorth Asset Management, Inc. has enrolled all of its advisors as NAIFA members and enrolled them in NAIFA’s grassroots advocacy programs.

NAIFA’s Limited and Extended Care Planning Center is hosting the second annual NAIFA LECP Impact Week, November 1 - 5. 

 The virtual event, with the theme Success Is a Collaboration of Problems Solved, has been revamped for 2021. Each of the five days of Impact Week programming will drill down on a specific topic and feature multiple presenters in a packed one-hour presentation, 12 - 1 pm eastern.

Tuesday, October 26, 2021 | 2 pm eastern

The Q4 State of NAIFA will feature NAIFA President Thomas Michel, LACP, and CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE, updating all interested stakeholders on how NAIFA is serving members and the insurance and financial services industry. They will also outline the association’s progress towards meeting goals established by the NAIFA 2025 Strategic Plan. The program will feature a legislative and regulatory update by NAIFA Assistant Vice President for Government Relations Judi Carsrud.

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) and Carefull have completed an educational partnership agreement to advance thought leadership and consumer education and promote professional cooperation between the two organizations. Under the partnership, Carefull will provide preferred access to the Carefull monitoring technology for NAIFA members, content for NAIFA blog posts and social media platforms, as well as articles around protecting and managing older adult's finances for NAIFA’s Advisor Today. 

The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) and Carefull have completed an educational partnership agreement to advance thought leadership and consumer education and promote professional cooperation between the two organizations. Under the partnership, Carefull will provide preferred access to the Carefull monitoring technology for NAIFA members, content for NAIFA blog posts and social media platforms, as well as articles around protecting and managing older adult's finances for NAIFA’s Advisor Today. 

NAIFA has issued a press release announcing the Governance Committee's nominees for candidates to run for the 2022 NAIFA Board of Trustees and Secretary. The new leadership will be elected in December and will serve along with incoming NAIFA President Lawrence Holzberg and President-Elect Bryon Holz.

NAIFA and White Glove have completed a marketing partnership agreement. The two organizations will work together to bring modern marketing practices to financial services professionals while raising awareness of the critical advocacy work that NAIFA undertakes at the state, interstate, and federal levels.  White Glove is a founding partner of NAIFA’s Business Performance Center that provides thought leadership to agents and advisors on practice management.

NAIFA Policy Director Maeghan Gale will represent insurance and financial advisors and NAIFA on the Board of Directors of the National Insurance Producer Registry (NIPR).

NIPR is a not-for-profit technology company with the goal of streamlining the producer licensing process. Governed by a Board of Directors representing state insurance regulators and members of the insurance industry, NIPR is an affiliate of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Gale joins the board immediately.

NAIFA has announced that its Business Performance Center Impact Week will offer an amazing slate of virtual programing led by industry experts, March 23-25. Presentations will be high-impact and provide valuable takeaways focused on practice management, growing your business, and reaching new markets.

ASAE recognizes NAIFA’s efforts to bolster insurance and financial professionals who are new to the industry.

Advisor Today, the official publication of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors, is pleased to announce the winners of its 2020 Four Under Forty awards: Andrew Bartling, FIC, LACP, of Modern Woodmen of America in Rapid City, SD; Richard M. Demko II, LUTCF, LACP, of Guardian Group in The Woodlands, TX; Samuel G. Sones, LUTCF, of Lincoln County Farm Bureau in Brookhaven, MS; and Joyce J. Yoo, of Wisely Financial in San Francisco.

Carina Hatfield, LUTCF, LACP, CLCS, of Spring City, PA, is the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) Young Advisor Team Leader of the Year for 2020.

Stephen Kagawa, LUTCF, FSS, of Monrovia, Calif., has been recognized as the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors’ 2020 Diversity Champion. Kagawa is CEO and Chairman of the Board of The Pacific Bridge Companies.

The countless choices can be mind boggling while researching your retirement investing options. However, there are certain decisions that should not be either/or.

As many industries transition to alternative working arrangements in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, certain sectors and functions essential to the nation’s public health, safety, and community well-being must continue to operate. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) recently released an advisory initial list of “Essential Critical Infrastructure Workers.”

NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux has written Larry Kudlow, director of the National Economic Council, asking the administration to include tax-exempt associations in any policies designed to provide businesses relief from impacts of the CONVID-19 outbreak.