I was new to the Waterbury area when I went back to work in the insurance industry.  Having a small child (not of school age) did not give me the opportunity to meet many new people that I would have something in common with, so when Lenore Hill of Sutherland Ins. invited me to a WAIW meeting, I went.  What a surprise, not just insurance information to enhance my job, but friendships to last a lifetime.  I had never been involved in an organization prior to this and did not expect to get involved but “getting involved” was what I did and I have never regretted it.

I have held many offices including president and chaired many committees, but it is not work, it is pleasure.  Being a member has really paid off!  I have traveled to many places and I have made many contacts in the insurance industry, which have helped me secure employment.  I sure look forward to our monthly meetings not only for education and information, but for fun and conversation as well!

Working in the insurance industry and being involved in NAIW and the Waterbury Association of Insurance Women has truly changed my life.  Little did I know that I would serve as  president of WAIW, Connecticut State Director, Assistant to the Regional Vice President and NAIW Liaison to the Professional Insurance Agents Association.  Becoming involved helped me to gain confidence in myself to accomplish many of the leadership rolls.  Along the way, friendships formed that will last forever.  It also gave me the opportunity to travel to many wonderful places attending conferences and meetings.

We know that the National Association of Insurance Women promotes education, fellowship and loyalty.  I learned approximately four years ago how important fellowship and loyalty are when I was diagnosed with cancer resulting in surgery.  The outpouring of good wishes through cards, letters, phone calls and flowers was so encouraging that I strongly feel helped in my recovery.  How fortunate that we have our own support group as well!

I joined WAIW in 1979 after beginning my career in the insurance field.  I am one of the "seasoned" members.  When I joined never in my wildest dreams would I think I would become president of this organization, not once but twice!

 The decision to join and get involved with the Waterbury Association of Insurance Women & NAIW was in 1980. The education, opportunities, friendships and support that I have received in both my professional life and personal life have been overwhelming. Serving on all committees (even to playing a Santa Clause that does a striptease) becoming President and Ct. State Director is just an added bonus from an association that I hold very dear to my heart. The Waterbury Association of Insurance Women work as a team and as I've always preached,

                                                          T      together
                                                                      E      everyone                  
                                                                      A      achieves
                                                                      M     more - and our association certainly does.