I just returned from the annual NRRA conference in Chicago last night. I know, NRRA conference? I talk a lot about fixing NRRA in Washington (maybe incessantly) but this the “good NRRA” I am talking about: The National Risk Retention Association; not the Nonadmitted and Reinsurance Reform Act.

Since Vermont is home to almost half of all RRGs licensed, it is a little like old home week in the Windy City. Many of the panelists are Vermonters or have strong connections to VCIA, such as Dan Labrie, Clare Bello, Stephanie Mapes, Michael Bemi, Nancy Gray, Tina Truex McCuin and Tim Padovese. Yours truly moderated a panel of professors and students from two risk management programs in Chicago for a very interesting view on what the industry needs to do to attract (and hold) the next generation of RRG leaders. Of course, DFR luminaries Dave Provost and Sandy Bigglestone were on two different panels providing their sought-out thoughts and wisdom on a number of issues affecting the RRG world.

Congratulations to Michael Bemi who was awarded the Karen Cutts Visionary award. This award is named for Karen who was an inspirational leader and advocate for the risk retention industry and the founder of the Risk Retention Reporter. Michael recently retired as President and CEO of the National Catholic Risk Retention Group and truly lives up to the accolades of the award. Even though retired, the good news for all of us at VCIA is that he will be joining us next year at our conference as a recently minted Honorary Member of the association!

Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you.

Rich Smith
VCIA President