The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) is pleased to announce the inaugural class of the NAIFA Hall of Fame to recognize and celebrate members whose extraordinary service and contributions represent the legacy of the most accomplished, impactful, and inspirational members of the NAIFA family. The NAIFA Board of Trustees authorized the creation of the Hall of Fame earlier this year.

“The inaugural members of NAIFA's Hall of Fame not only exemplified leadership within the financial services industry but also steadfast support for NAIFA's mission,” said NAIFA President Tom Cothron, LUTCF, FSCP. “Their unwavering dedication and commitment to NAIFA and the industry were instrumental in advancing policies and shaping the landscape of financial security in America. Their contributions have played significant roles ensuring that families across the nation can achieve their financial goals with confidence.”

Inductees to the Hall of Fame must be members of NAIFA at the time of nomination and induction except in the case of former members who have reached the age of 65 and are retired. Posthumous nominations and inductions are considered.

Members of the inaugural class are:

• C. Robert Brown, CLU, LUTCF
• Norman G. Levine*
• Ellen M. Putnam, CLU*
• Colonel Chauncey Munroe Ransom*
• Edward A. Woods*

*posthumous inductee

The inaugural Hall of Fame class will be recognized at NAIFA’s Apex 2024 and Belong Awards Gala Sept. 21 at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix.

“The creation of the NAIFA Hall of Fame underscores NAIFA’s dedication to acknowledging the accomplishments of extraordinary leaders in our industry,” said NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE. “The Hall of Fame provides a permanent platform to recognize those who have played pivotal roles in promoting financial security and advancing the mission of NAIFA. By celebrating their legacy, we aim to inspire future generations of NAIFA members to follow in their footsteps.”

To ensure that the most deserving candidates are recognized, a Hall of Fame Selection Committee has been established. This committee is responsible for reviewing nominations and selecting up to five members each year. The criteria for selection are:

• Service to NAIFA
• Professional achievements
• Tenure of membership and years of experience
• Leadership
• Association and industry recognition
• Ethical conduct

Members of the 2024 inaugural Hall of Fame Formation Committee are: 

• Lawrence Holzberg, LUTCF, LACP (Committee Chair)
• Tom Cothron, LUTCF, FSCP
• Tom Currey, CLU, ChFC, LUTCF
• John Davidson, LUTCF, FSS
• Keith Gillies, CFP, CLU, ChFC
• Brock Jolly, CFP, CLU, LACP, ChFC, CLTC, CASL, RICP
• Tom Michel, LACP, CLTC
• Kathleen Owings, LACP