We are well into the CDIA’s Fall Campaign, and the response continues to validate our efforts to educate working Americans about this often misunderstood and overlooked benefit. The campaign’s insightful articles and videos will continue through Thanksgiving, encouraging employees to learn more, ask questions, and participate in their employer programs. The winners are working Americans and their families.
The beginning of November marked the end of my presidency of the Council for Disability Income Insurance (CDIA). I have been blessed to be affiliated with the CDIA, and before that the CDA, since its inception. I was fortunate to be asked to represent the companies I worked for with the CDA. It was always a labor of love—helping to educate working Americans about the need for disability income insurance and providing tools to the agents, brokers, and benefit representatives who are on the front lines of educating individuals, small business owners, and larger employers.
Three years ago, after my retirement, I was asked to step in on an interim basis following the passing of our previous president. I was happy and proud to accept this challenge. Eventually, I asked to have the “interim” title removed, and our efforts have borne fruit. With the CDIA team, including staff and supporting firms, we have broadened our message and greatly expanded our reach. I am pleased to leave the CDIA in a stronger position than it was three years ago.
However, the work is never done, and we will continue to expand our influence and develop educational resources. We need more disability carriers, both individual and group, to carry the banner. We expanded our membership to include reinsurers, actuarial firms, and the true frontline warriors, the Brokerage General Agents (BGAs). Many have joined the effort, but we are a big tent, and all are welcome and encouraged to join for the greater good.
I want to recognize those I have had the pleasure of working with over these three years. Early in my tenure, we held our first “Blue-Sky Meetings.” I consider these meetings our “secret sauce” for success. The intent was to involve all principals, discuss where we were succeeding, and challenge ourselves to further the reach of the CDIA.
The internal staff of Christi Doe and Fred Schott have been tremendous and have run with the ball. Our marketing firm, CD+M, a long-term partner of the CDIA, has also been tremendous. Early in my tenure, I often used the team to bounce around ideas, and their encouragement was critical. Again, a huge thanks!
Our accounting firm, Royer Advisors and Accountants, and staff members Stephanie and, more recently, Laura, were instrumental in standardizing our processes and ensuring that our financials are rock solid. Early in our conversations, I asked what we could and should do better. They responded, and we incorporated each recommendation.
Finally, CDIA depends on members’ willingness to fund the organization. As important as the funding is, it is no more important than the direct impact of the board members and the representatives who support our Marketing and Research and Education Committees’ efforts. We have had tremendous support from each of these groups. Thank you to each of you for your support!
On a personal note, I accidentally entered the disability income insurance business a little over 40 years ago. I was a young, active-duty captain who wanted to see if I could succeed in a civilian career. A recruiter convinced me to interview with Provident Life and Accident to market a product called disability income. I initially turned down the interview but reluctantly went through the process and decided it offered the best chance to support myself and my family.
Within a year, it had evolved from a job into an enthusiastic spokesperson role. My first boss also challenged me to continue my insurance education, and I have carried that desire to learn throughout the rest of my career. Thanks to each of you who pushed me to keep “sharpening the knife.”
I was also incredibly lucky that each company I worked for strongly encouraged me to continue my military career. Early in my civilian life, I decided I wanted to be successful in three areas: my marriage, my civilian career, and my military career.
The glue that has helped me succeed in each area is Teri, my spouse. We recently celebrated our 48th anniversary. Teri has always supported my decisions, given me the time I needed in each endeavor, and encouraged me along the way. Thanks!
As I pass the torch to Tracie Foster, CDIA’s new president, I am confident that her talent, dedication, and enthusiasm will continue to move the organization forward. I encourage each of you to support her as she works to expand our mission and reach more working Americans. Thank you!
