2026 Excellence in Insurance Education Awards Announced
The 2026 Excellence in Insurance Education (EIE) awards were presented during the Excellence in Insurance Education Luncheon at the Education Convocation in Baltimore earlier this month.
Since 2010, the EIE award has honored Big “I” state associations and staff who work tirelessly to educate their members. These recipients consistently set the standard for high-quality education and an unwavering commitment to educational excellence.
“Our 2026 honorees are shaping the future of insurance with dedication and a mission to empower members with education and tools for success,” says Jennifer Becker, executive director of research and education. “Each has earned a well-deserved spotlight on their state education efforts.”
Congratulations to the 2026 Excellence in Insurance Education Award recipients from the following states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont and Washington.
During the annual awards luncheon, the Big “I” also honored Jessica McWilliams, vice president of education at Insurance Agents & Brokers (IA&B), with the Spirit of Education Award. The Spirit of Education Award was created by the Big “I” to recognize education leaders who make extraordinary and often unsung contributions of time, energy, expertise and guidance to strengthen insurance education programs.
McWilliams blazed a trail by developing the Women in Insurance conference—a program that quickly caught on across state associations as she shared insights, scheduling tips and speaker ideas. In addition to her groundbreaking event programming, she has supported state associations through their education staff transitions, generously shared curriculum and served as an impactful mentor across the industry.
“When we created the Spirit of Education Award, we wanted to recognize educators who give back selflessly to support our collective mission,” Becker says. “Jess McWilliams is the definition of that spirit. Her willingness to innovate, mentor peers and open doors for others has elevated insurance education. We are proud to recognize her in front of the insurance community.”
Explore the award-winning programs offered by these state associations. Questions can be sent to Ines Hoyle, Big “I” program manager.