Jennifer Cockerham, CIC, AFIS, CISR, CIIP, CLP – Assistant to the Region VI RVP Brenda Hornyak, ACSR, CISR, CIIP, DAE
Your name and Region. Do you belong to a local association, or are you a MAL? How long have you been a member?
Jennifer Cockerham. Region VI. MAL. Member since 2019
What inspires you to be part of Insurance Professionals and what prompted you to join?
Angi Gentry relentlessly encouraged me for two years. After joining, I realized the immense value of IAIP. From the networking opportunities, to the friends and fellowship, to the incredible education opportunities, I wish I’d have joined sooner! IAIP has not only been a benefit for me professionally, but personally.
Describe a memorable collaborative effort, such as a committee, task force, or program, where you worked effectively with others to achieve a common goal.
For the most recent national convention in OKC, Sandy Ballert & I co-chaired the First Timers Committee & it was a wonderful opportunity to engage with our first timers & past presidents.
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?
I’d have to say co-chairing the Young & New Professional event for the national convention with Brooke Lesniak in Lewisville, KY in 2022 was one of my most memorable experiences. It was so fun to put the Family Feud game together & of course, dressing the part, was quite a sight.
What is a good tip on how to share the benefits of membership with an employer?
The education offered by IAIP is unlike any other education out there. Most education courses are industry specific. IAIP offers educational classes on leadership & growth and directly contribute to an individual’s value to an organization.
What Insurance Professionals programs have you taken that you would highly recommend to another member?
The classes via CLP Designation would be my top recommendation.
Our organization’s vision statement includes: Insurance Professionals is the leading provider of education, skills enhancement and leadership development to members and partners of our industry. Which part of our Vision statement do you feel has had the biggest impact on your personal or professional growth?
Skills enhancement, for sure!
What are your hobbies, interests, or a particular cause you are most passionate about?
I enjoy singing, reading, puzzles, & anything Beauty & the Beast. I am a huge believer in progression! I am passionate about learning & growing, both professionally and personally. Complacency can create missed opportunities, limited growth, & a false sense of security. I continually ask myself “What can I do to make myself better in every aspect of life: as a friend, mother, employee, human being, etc.?”
The Hidden Heroes of Insurance Professionals is a collaboration of the Member Engagement and Services and Marketing and Publications Task Forces.