On Wednesday, December 4, 2024, OIA hosted its annual Awards Ceremony—a celebration of extraordinary dedication and achievement. This special evening honors OIA members and partners who have gone above and beyond to make a lasting impact on their communities and our industry over the past year.
The task of selecting award winners falls to the OIA Governance Committee, who face the challenging job of choosing from a wealth of outstanding nominations. After careful consideration, the committee identifies the individuals and organizations that best embody the spirit of each award.
We’re thrilled to introduce this year’s honorees and share their inspiring contributions below.
Independence Bell Award/Industry Person of the Year
The Independence Bell Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the independent agency system and OIA. This year’s recipient is Scott Treen, CIC, CPIA, Owner & Principal of Treen Insurance Service Agency.
With over 30 years in the independent agent community, Scott has demonstrated unwavering leadership, expertise, and dedication. His passion for education shines in his long-standing role as an instructor for the National Alliance’s CIC and CISR programs, as well as OIA, where he has taught for more than 15 years. Scott’s engaging and practical teaching style equips agents with the skills and confidence to thrive, making him a trusted mentor in the industry.
In recognition of his exceptional teaching, Scott received the prestigious Jack V. Hedges Educator of the Year Award, highlighting his commitment to nurturing the next generation of independent agents. Beyond the classroom, Scott is a sought-after speaker at civic events and an active community leader. His contributions include serving with his local Rotary Club, leading in the Boy Scouts, and coaching Jefferson High School’s girls’ golf team to five consecutive championships.
Scott’s dedication to education, service, and the independent agency channel exemplifies a life devoted to excellence. We are proud to honor Scott with the Independence Bell Award for his remarkable impact on independent agents and his enduring contributions to the profession.
Outstanding Company Achievement/Eagle Award
The Eagle Award honors a company that has demonstrated outstanding achievement and superior performance in a specific area such as leadership, innovation, technology, perpetuation, and/or customer service for the betterment of the independent agency system.
OIA presented Paul Hawkins, CEO of HawkSoft, with the Eagle Award. Hawkins began developing insurance software tools during his six years as an independent agent in Portland, Oregon. Recognizing the need for greater efficiency and support, he founded HawkSoft in 1995 to create innovative technology solutions tailored to independent insurance agencies.
HawkSoft’s mission is to empower agents with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry. Paul’s hands-on approach includes gathering feedback directly from agents at conferences, trade shows, and forums, ensuring HawkSoft’s development aligns with real-world needs. His philosophy is simple: prioritize clients’ success, and business success will follow.
Known for its customer-first mindset, HawkSoft is celebrated for its passion and commitment to the customer experience. Paul’s leadership and dedication to fostering a supportive, client-focused culture have driven HawkSoft’s growth and innovation. Under his guidance, the company has built a team of 160+ that lives its core values and consistently puts agents’ needs first. Paul is a respected industry leader, frequent speaker at insurance events, and recipient of The Brokers Insurance Group’s Legend Award, embodying HawkSoft’s heart and vision for the future.
Thank you to HawkSoft’s commitment to growing the independent agency system.
Outstanding Customer Service Representative of the Year
The Outstanding CSR of the Year Award®, established in 1991 by The National Alliance for Insurance Education & Research, honors exceptional insurance professionals who excel in customer service and leadership. State-level winners advance to compete nationally, with the national honoree receiving $2,000, a $1,000 prize for their nominator, a gold-and-diamond pin, and a scholarship for their employer to any National Alliance program.
Nominees submit an entry form, two professional recommendations, and a 500-1,000-word essay. This year’s essay explored how CSRs navigate economic instability and rising customer expectations, sharing innovative solutions and best practices to build lasting relationships.
The National Alliance named Dorian Harmon, CPRM, CISR, this year’s winner. Dorian is an Account Manager at Knight Insurance Group — OIA had the honor of celebrating her award. In Dorian’s submission, she shared:
“Resilience, adaptability, innovative approaches and best practices… these are the qualities and tools that build trust, earn loyalty and exceed client expectations. I love the feeling of appreciation when my client thanks me for the solution I offered or the reassurance I provided. My clients value our relationship, and my reward is their loyalty and continued business.”
It’s our honor to recognize Dorian for not only winning the Ohio Outstanding Customer Service Representative of the Year Award, but also for being one of the four national finalists this year. On behalf of OIA and the National Alliance, we congratulate Dorian!
Excellence in Leadership
The Excellence in Leadership Award recognizes an OIA volunteer who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and service to the association over the past year. Past OIA Board President, Brent Phelan, presented this year’s honoree, Andy Stephey, AFIS, CIC, CRM, LUTCF, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at UIS Insurance & Investments, with the award.
Andy’s dedication to OIA is evident through his current roles as Vice Chair of the Board and Chair of the Finance and Budget Committee. A longtime advocate for the organization, Andy has been instrumental in shaping its future while fostering the next generation of independent agents.
Each year, Andy mentors a young producer and brings them to the Big “I” Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., providing invaluable exposure to industry advocacy. His commitment to cultivating future leaders ensures fresh voices are engaged and prepared to carry the profession forward. At his agency, Andy has led efforts to raise funds for OIAPAC, engaging leaders and employees alike. He has also facilitated OIA strategic planning retreats, fostering inclusive and forward-thinking discussions that propel the organization. Andy’s passion, mentorship, and visionary leadership make him a deserving recipient of this award.
Service like Andy’s requires immense time, energy, and passion—resources that could be spent elsewhere but are instead dedicated to advancing the independent agency system through OIA. We are deeply grateful for the commitment of leaders like Andy and our entire board, whose legacy strengthens our profession and inspires the next generation with dignity and purpose.
Lifetime Achievement Award
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals for their outstanding leadership and contributions to the association, the independent agency system, and their community. This honor considers a nominee’s body of work, longevity, and lasting impact. It may be awarded posthumously and includes retired professionals.
This year’s award was presented by past President, Perk Reichley, to Steve Brown, Owner & President of Payne & Brown Insurance Agency. Steve has devoted his time, talent, and resources to the OIA throughout his remarkable career. As the longest-serving Chair of the OIA Board, he has played a pivotal role in shaping OIA into the organization it is today.
Steve’s passion for the independent agency system is evident in his unwavering commitment to OIA, its members, volunteer leaders, and staff. His guidance in strategic discussions consistently prioritizes what’s best for independent agents, demonstrating loyalty and dedication to the OIA mission.
As a mentor, Steve has inspired and supported countless young agents, peers, and OIA staff, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership and service. His exceptional contributions and steadfast dedication make him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award, joining the esteemed group of Lifetime Achievement honorees.
Jeanie Giesler Culture Catalyst Award
The Jeanie Giesler Culture Catalyst Award honors an independent insurance agency employee who serves as the gateway to internal and external audiences to raise awareness and tell the story of the value of an independent agent.
This year’s award was presented by the award’s namesake, OIA’s own Jeanie Giesler, to Holly Carpenter, Agency Principal/Owner of Kasmer Insurance Agency. Holly was awarded for her exceptional dedication to developing new talent and supporting the independent agency channel.
As the owner and sole producer in her small agency, Holly took on the ambitious task of mentoring intern Phillip Naples. She guided him through his internship and helped him achieve a major milestone: earning his insurance license—the first intern in the program to do so during the summer. Holly also encouraged Phillip to apply for a Foundation Scholarship to pursue his CISR designation, continuing her investment in his growth.
Phillip shared his gratitude:
“Holly has gone above and beyond to ensure my success. She generously paid for the classes I needed to obtain my property and casualty license, which was a significant investment in my professional development. Additionally, she provided me with paid time off to study for the exam, demonstrating her commitment to my growth and success. Holly has consistently offered me invaluable guidance, has always been approachable and willing to listen. Her efforts have made a lasting impression on me, and I am genuinely grateful for the opportunities and support she has provided.”
Holly’s remarkable efforts to mentor talent, even while managing the demands of a small agency, showcase her commitment to nurturing future leaders and strengthening the industry.
Community Service Award
This award honors an independent insurance agent or agency that has provided extraordinary service within their community. This is defined by demonstrating commitment to their local neighbors by going above and beyond in volunteering time and enthusiasm to causes close to their heart.
This year’s recipient, Wallace & Turner, has been a cornerstone of Springfield, Ohio, for over 150 years, living by the motto, “Take care of the community, and they’ll take care of you.” Their impact spans education, hunger relief, the arts, and environmental stewardship.
Wallace & Turner has supported the Second Harvest Food Bank of Clark, Champaign & Logan Counties, securing grants, sponsoring events like the Empty Bowls fundraiser, and contributing thousands of dollars. Agency leaders Patrick Field and Mary Jo Leventhal serve on the food bank’s board, reinforcing their fight against hunger.
Education is another priority. They back initiatives such as Clark State Community College’s Champaign City Scholars program and Catholic Central School’s Emerald Evening Auction, where Patrick has helped raise over $7 million for school expansions. The agency also demonstrates environmental commitment by adopting a recycling site through Clark County’s “Operation Adopt-A-Drop” program.
Agency leaders, including Patrick Field, Otto Larson, Myles Trempe, and Ben Galbreath, are deeply embedded in nonprofit work, supporting causes from youth programs to social services. This dedication earned them the Outstanding Philanthropic Business Award in 2024, reflecting their enduring legacy of generosity.
Each year, the recipient of the Community Service Award selects a charity to receive a donation in the amount of $2,500 from OIA on their behalf. This year Wallace & Turner have selected Project Woman, a nationally accredited non-profit [501c3] domestic violence and rape crisis center in Springfield, to receive that donation.
OIA Citation
OIA is proud to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the association and the industry, including committee chairs, task force members, donors, and representatives from companies and the insurance community.
This year’s OIA Citation is awarded to Chris Kendall, CPCU, AIM, AIT, ARM, ARP, ARe, the Executive Director of the Greater Cincinnati Insurance Board.
With over 30 years in the insurance industry, Chris has built an impressive career, primarily with The Cincinnati Insurance Companies, where he held roles as a commercial underwriter, underwriting manager, and Director of Operations for the CL Department. His time as an agent further deepened his connection to the independent agent community.
A dedicated educator, Chris has taught P&C classes, instructed for “The Institutes,” and led pre-licensing education for the Greater Cincinnati Insurance Board for more than a decade. As Executive Director, he manages the P&C pre-licensing program, delivering engaging in-person and virtual classes. Through his enthusiasm and storytelling, Chris has inspired countless individuals to earn their licenses and become agents in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana—leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
Most recently, Chris has partnered with OIA to develop a joint pre-licensing program, aimed at attracting new talent to meet the industry’s growing needs. His expertise and collaboration are invaluable in advancing this vital initiative.
Best Agency Video Award
The Best Agency Video Award celebrates creativity, captivation, and memorability in video storytelling. Winners receive a $250 Best Buy gift card to support future production and photography efforts.
For 2024, the award went to Phelan Insurance Agency, featuring Amanda Phelan, Damian Richard, and Todd Phelan.
Let’s face it—insurance isn’t the most glamorous industry. But what if we could make it exciting? The team at Phelan Insurance did just that with their Superhero-themed video.
Drawing on popular movie themes and characters, their engaging video highlights the value of independent agents, showcases rewarding career opportunities in the industry, and even gives a shout-out to OIA’s job board. It’s the perfect mix of education and entertainment.
Board Service Awards
Each year, OIA recognizes the Directors whose Board terms have concluded. This year, OIA had the honor of recognizing Meghan Griffith Ragozzino, who has served on the OIA Board for a total of six years, and will begin a new term on the OIA Service Corporation Board in January 2025. OIA also recognized Perk Reichley, past OIA Board Chair as he ended his tenure most recently as OIA Service Corporation Board President. With his long-standing commitment to OIA, Perk will continue to serve on the Governance Committee, where his leadership and influence will remain invaluable.
We are deeply thankful for their contributions as they have guided the association for the betterment of independent agents throughout Ohio.
Congratulations to all recipients! We look forward to hosting this event each year as an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable contributions our members make to their communities. Your dedication and hard work exemplify the values we stand for, and we are truly honored to recognize and showcase your achievements. Thank you for inspiring us all with your commitment to making a difference.
