Leading insurance trade association establishes CIWA Women and InsurTech Committee to drive professional development and digital advancement
SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 26, 2025 -- The California Insurance Wholesalers Association (CIWA) announces the launch of two initiatives designed to strengthen the excess & surplus lines insurance sector and foster innovation within the industry: CIWA Women and an Insurtech Committee.
CIWA Women emerges to promote women's interests, development, and empowerment in the property & casualty insurance space. Under the leadership of Committee Chair Yana Connors, this initiative brings together accomplished industry leaders to form an inaugural committee made up of Sarah Sloan from Paragon Insurance Holdings, Elizabeth Mertel from Seneca Insurance Company, Grainne Bohan from UFG Specialty, Yiana Stavrakis from Monarch E&S, Dena Kaplan from The Insurance Journal, and Holly Valiquette from Pacific Inspections.
"CIWA Women strives to provide a dedicated and supportive space within the California wholesale market to foster networking, mentorship, and professional growth," said Yana Connors, CIWA President and CIWA Women Chair.
As part of this effort, the committee will plan a flagship in-person event focused on personal and professional development. The group will also explore opportunities for expansion, potentially incorporating virtual workshops, networking events, or mentorship programs.
Simultaneously, CIWA has established an Insurtech Committee to address the growing importance of technology in the property & casualty insurance sector. Bringing together insurtech leaders with wholesale and carrier insurance professionals, this initiative will serve as a crucial bridge between traditional insurance operations and emerging applications.
"Our industry is continuously adapting to new technological advancements," said Garett Kaneko, CIWA Vice President and Insurtech Committee Chair. "Through the Insurtech Committee, we're building a collaborative environment where industry professionals can navigate the steady stream of new systems and tools, finding innovative ways to enhance underwriting, distribution, and the customer experience."
These initiatives demonstrate CIWA's continual commitment to enhancing the excess & surplus lines insurance industry through strategic leadership, professional development, and technological advancement.
About CIWA
The California Insurance Wholesalers Association, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization. Their vision is to perpetuate the education, advancement and advocacy of wholesale insurance professionals and their affiliated business partners. Visit ciwa.net. Tax ID 95-4369749
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