{"id":3311,"date":"2026-07-03T07:54:54","date_gmt":"2026-07-03T07:54:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.independentagent.com\/new-jersey\/?page_id=3311"},"modified":"2026-07-10T18:56:58","modified_gmt":"2026-07-10T18:56:58","slug":"trailblazher","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.independentagent.com\/new-jersey\/trailblazher\/","title":{"rendered":"TrailblazHER"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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We see you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

No matter how many years you have dedicated to this industry – if you’ve shattered glass ceilings or are just beginning to climb the ladder – you are a TrailblazHER and you deserve the spotlight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Join women from all over New Jersey, in all positions of insurance, for an event that will undoubtedly impact the trajectory of your career.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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“Being surrounded by strong, successful women created a powerful sense of community\u2014 one that uplifted me, validated my journey, and reminded me that I\u2019m not alone in this profession. The conversations, mentorship, and shared experiences have strengthened my confidence and reaffirmed my commitment to continue growing as a leader.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

– Kathry Martinez, Fiorentino Anillo Insurance<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

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Event Program<\/p>\n\n\n\n

March 11, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7:00 pm – Meet & Greet (optional, but recommended!)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

We HIGHLY encourage you to come to Princeton the night before and join our private cocktail reception. This will give you the opportunity to connect with some of our industry’s most prominent and powerful women, spend some time with our keynote speaker, and feel rested and relaxed at the start of our event. We have secured an exclusive room rate for guests who take advantage of this option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

MARCH 12, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7:00 AM – Guided Morning Walk<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Start your day with a clear mind and refreshed spirit! The morning’s guided walk will be led by Emma Corcoran. Guests are asked to meet in the lobby at 6:50 AM. Perfect for those spending the night, however if you are an early riser, feel free to join us the day of.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

8:00 AM – Registration<\/p>\n\n\n\n

9:00 AM – Breakfast, Networking Bingo, Mimosa Bar<\/p>\n\n\n\n

10:00 AM – Welcome<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kristin Ryan, Big I NJ Chairman<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

10:15 AM – Keynote Address – 
The TrailblazHER\u2019s Guide to Work\/Life Choices <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Emma Corcoran, Owner & Founder, EC Consulting LLC<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Independent agents are no strangers to bold decisions. In this energizing keynote, Emma explores how women in insurance can lead with values, voice, and empathy to redefine what it means to trailblaze in both work and life. Through stories, frameworks, and reflection, attendees will gain practical tools and the confidence to make the best work and life choices for themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

11:30 AM – Lunch & Networking Bingo<\/p>\n\n\n\n

12:15 PM – DiSC Lite Breakout Session – 
Style Matters: Discover Your Leadership Style in 60 Minutes<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Great leaders don\u2019t lead the same way, and that\u2019s the advantage. In this fast-paced, interactive DiSC Lite breakout session designed specifically for women in insurance, you\u2019ll uncover how your natural behavioral style shapes the way you lead, communicate, and perform under pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Through engaging activities and real-world insurance examples, you\u2019ll explore the four DiSC styles and quickly begin identifying your own. Whether you\u2019re bold and decisive, steady and supportive, or analytical and detail-driven, understanding your style unlocks greater confidence, clarity, and influence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re ready to strengthen your leadership presence, collaborate more effectively, and lead with intention, this session delivers powerful insights you can use immediately, no matter where you are on your leadership journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1:30 PM – Creative & Collaborative Break – Blind Date With A Book!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What is the most moving, inspiration book you’ve read? The one that you couldn’t put down? Your five star recommendation anytime someone asks for their next TBR? That’s the book we want you to share! Blind Date With A Book lets you give your favorite book with a twist – they won’t know it till they unwrap it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to Participate: <\/strong>If you would like to participate in this incredibly fun activity, bring a book that speaks to you completely wrapped so the cover is hidden. On the wrapping, share the book’s genre and a brief description without giving the title away (bonus points if you want to decorate too).<\/em> All wrapped books will be displayed and participating attendees will select a book based on your description alone to unwrap and keep during the Creative Break. Talk about not judging a book by its cover! Any genre is welcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This activity is completely optional, but how can you not join the fun?! Books can be previously loved – no need to purchase a new copy unless if you can’t part with the one on your shelf (thrift books a-ok too!).<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

2:15 – Panel Discussion<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Panelists: Jacquelyn Zampella, VP of New Business\/Risk Architect at EAB Insurance Group; Cindy Heismeyer, VP, Strategy, Partnerships, Insights, and Customer Experience at Selective Insurance; Kathleen Bradley, Vice President\/Head of Placement at Acrisure East Division<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

3:15 – Closing Remarks\/What’s Next<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Kristin Ryan, Big I NJ Chairman<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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“It\u2019s always empowering to have a group of women working together while sharing thoughts and ideas to not only better themselves in their careers but to encourage and inspire others. What an enlightening day it was filled with great information, helpful resources, fun activities, tasty food, and very productive conversation.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

– Abi Stults Rivenburg, Allen & Stults Co.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

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Speakers<\/strong><\/h2>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t
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Kristin Ryan<\/span><\/a><\/h3>
Big I NJ Chairwoman<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Emma Corcoran<\/span><\/a><\/h3>
Founder, EC Consulting LLC<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
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Panelists<\/strong><\/h2>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t
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Jacquelyn Zampella<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/h3>
VP of New Business\/Risk Architect,
EAB Insurance Group<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Cindy Heismeyer<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/h3>
VP, Strategy, Partnerships, Insights, and Customer Experience, Selective Insurance<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Kathleen Bradley<\/strong><\/span><\/a><\/h3>
VP, Head of Placement
Acrisure, East Division<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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“This is truly a standout event. It was incredibly powerful to not only hear from inspiring women across the industry, but also to sit down in small groups and have meaningful, candid conversations. That level of connection and vulnerability is rare, and it made the experience feel deeply personal and impactful”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

– Norma Alvarez-Martin, Plymouth Rock Assurances<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

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Questions?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Contact Jennifer <\/a>Kacmarsky at 609-587-4333.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Please note that this event does not qualify for continuing education credits in New Jersey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cancellations received by February 27, 2026 will incur 50% administrative fee. Cancellations after that date result in a forfeiture of all fees.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n