Terri Brennan – Sponsors and Partners Task Force
Your name and Region. Do you belong to a local association, or are you a MAL? How long have you been a member?
Terri Brennan – Region VII – I am an Arizona MAL (Member-at-Large). I have been a member in Arizona since 2008. Previously, I was a member of Region III in the late 1990s, but lapsed for several years when I moved to Arizona. I have had the pleasure of serving in every position (except Treasurer) at the local level. I have been a Council Director Assistant, Council Director, Regional MAL, Membership Liaison, and Regional Director, and am currently serving as Region VII RVP.
What inspires you to be part of Insurance Professionals, and what prompted you to join?
I love being involved in an organization filled with like-minded people in my chosen field of employment. After my husband passed away, coworkers in Arizona invited me to rejoin, and I have made so many lifelong friends through the years. I want others to experience the connections and support that I found through Insurance Professionals.
Describe a memorable collaborative effort, such as a committee, task force, or program, where you worked effectively with others to achieve a common goal.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of working on several Task Forces and Committees with some amazing mentors. The Legacy Foundation had the most impact on me, thanks to the guidance of the now angel mentors Victoria Rivas and Billie Sleet. It was a pleasure to work with them, gain insight from them, while working to achieve the Foundations’ goals together. If you don’t already have a mentor, seek one out; you won’t be disappointed at the endless benefits.
What is one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had as a member, whether it was a meeting, a specific project, or a challenging situation you encountered?
In 2018, the Arizona Council hosted the Regional Conference as our farewell event. It was also the year we realigned to just seven regions, with our theme being “The Magnificent Seven” (the joining of Regions VIII & IX to become Region VII). The most memorable moment was our keynote speaker, Colleen Kelly-Alexander, who was not only a high school friend of my daughters but also an excellent motivational speaker. She shared her inspiring story, about her terrifying cycling accident, her recovery from multiple surgeries, and her ability to rebuild her purpose in life… which she talks about in the book she wrote about her experiences. It was very moving for everyone that was present. At the end of her presentation, she honored me with one of her race medals.
Today, Colleen and her husband, Sean, run the Anam Cara Sanctuary, a 501(c)(3) animal sanctuary in East Haddam, CT. If you are interested in more information about Colleen and her story, I’d love to share it – please just ask me!
What is a good tip on how to share the benefits of membership with an Employer?
Invite them to be a part of what we do. When the convention was in Arizona last year, I invited our Senior Vice President, David Nelson, to be part of our Ignite Luncheon Panel. He experienced firsthand what Insurance Professionals are all about. We had several conversations about the association and how it has added value to me as an employee and also enriched me on a personal level.
What Insurance Professionals programs have you taken that you would highly recommend to another member?
I have taken many I-Can courses over the years and am working towards my CLP (Certified Leadership Professional) Designation. I think CLP is the perfect place for members to start their Insurance Professionals Designation journey, along with the ACR (Accredited Customer Representative). These courses cover various aspects of our industry and are beneficial to both new and seasoned professionals.
Which part of our Vision statement do you feel has had the biggest impact on your personal or professional growth?
The leadership development options available through Insurance Professionals have significantly impacted my growth within the association and in my day-to-day job. I have learned invaluable skills that have helped advance my career.
What are your hobbies, interests, or a particular cause you are most passionate about?
Besides being a self-proclaimed insurance nerd who loves reading coverage forms and endorsements, I enjoy singing (especially harmonizing) and spending as much time as possible with my almost 6-year-old granddaughter, my daughter, and son-in-law. I am passionate about several causes, including the Legacy Foundation and Lighthouse for Hope, a non-profit organization helping those fighting pediatric cancer and blood disorders. I also volunteer at local charities like St. Mary’s Food Bank, St. Vincent DePaul, Ronald McDonald House, and Sojourners.
The Hidden Heroes of Insurance Professionals is a collaboration of the Member Engagement and Services and Marketing and Publications Task Forces.