At Rathbun Insurance, we're committed to not only providing top-notch services to our clients but also to actively engaging with and supporting our industry community. Recently, we had the privilege of participating in two significant events hosted by the National African American Insurance Association (NAAIA): the NAAIA breakfast and the NAAIA Mid-West Regional Forum. Here's a glimpse into our enriching experiences at these events.

The day kicked off with the NAAIA breakfast, where we joined in celebrating the achievements of six outstanding students

who received scholarships to pursue careers in business and risk management. It was inspiring to witness their dedication and determination to excel in their chosen fields. Held at the exquisite Huntington Bank on the 19th floor, the venue offered breathtaking views of Detroit, including iconic landmarks such as the Little Caesars Arena, Ford Field, Comerica Park, and even glimpses of Canada.

One highlight of the breakfast was the keynote address by Princess Castleberry, a renowned Global Speaker and Wellness and Risk Management Consultant. Her insights into making wellness actionable for organizations resonated deeply with us, as we share a common goal of safeguarding people, purpose, and profits. The sense of camaraderie and celebration of future prospects filled the room, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.

Following the breakfast, six of our Rathbun staff members proceeded to the Detroit Renaissance Center for the NAAIA Mid-West Regional Forum. This gathering brought together over 100 industry professionals for a day dedicated to learning and collaboration.

Our CEO and producer, Ben Rathbun, had the honor of speaking on a panel titled "No Good Deed Goes Unpunished: Protecting Nonprofits." Sharing insights and strategies to mitigate risks in the nonprofit sector, Ben highlighted the importance of proactive risk management in safeguarding organizations' missions.

Additionally, Rathbun producer Darren Bardell shared his expertise on a panel focused on "Revolutionizing Strategies for Progressive DEI Culture." His insights into fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion resonated with the audience, sparking meaningful discussions on implementing progressive cultural shifts within organizations.

Throughout the day, our team members had the opportunity to learn from esteemed panelists on a wide range of topics, including the impact of AI on the insurance industry, innovative sales strategies, and leveraging data for informed decision-making.

In conclusion, our participation in the NAAIA events was truly enriching and reflective of our commitment to diversity, learning, and community engagement. We look forward to continuing our

support for initiatives that promote inclusivity and excellence in the insurance industry.