Independent Insurance Agents of Rhode Island

12/19/2025

IIARI Past President Spotlight: Nancy Mendizabal (Nancy R. Mendizabal, CIC | 2007–2008)
As part of IIARI’s 125th anniversary celebration, we’re proud to recognize Nancy R. Mendizabal, CIC, who served as IIARI President from 2007–2008.

In her interview, Nancy reflects on major legislative challenges at the State House during her term—particularly issues surrounding lead paint—which required strong advocacy on behalf of independent agents. She also highlights the successful transition to new executive leadership and her involvement in helping launch the Women in Insurance Initiative, expanding leadership opportunities and engagement within the association.

Thank you, Nancy, for your leadership and lasting contributions to IIARI and Rhode Island’s independent insurance community.
https://loom.ly/5QignOc

12/18/2025

IIARI Past President Spotlight: David M. Soucy (AAI, AIS | 2006–2007)
As part of IIARI’s 125th anniversary celebration, we’re proud to recognize David M. Soucy, AAI, AIS, who served as IIARI President from 2006–2007.

In his interview, David reflects on one of the key challenges facing independent agents at the time—differentiating themselves from direct writers. He discusses the importance of clearly communicating the value of the independent agency system and highlights incorporating Trusted Choice® as a membership benefit as a way to strengthen that message and support agents in a changing marketplace.

Thank you, David, for your leadership and contributions to IIARI and Rhode Island’s independent insurance community.
https://loom.ly/rZDC2OY

12/17/2025

IIARI Past President Spotlight: Bob Loiselle (Robert B. Loiselle, CIC | 1992–1993)

As part of IIARI’s 125th anniversary celebration, we’re proud to recognize Robert B. Loiselle, CIC, who served as IIARI President from 1992–1993.

In his interview, Bob reflects on the association’s mission during his tenure—to be the voice of independent agents with consumers, legislators, and insurance companies—while also helping guide a successful transition in executive leadership. He emphasizes the ongoing importance of keeping members engaged and actively involved in the association.

Thank you, Bob, for your leadership and lasting contributions to IIARI and Rhode Island’s independent insurance community.
https://loom.ly/CNlb03M

12/16/2025

IIARI Past President Spotlight: Bill Hunt (William Hunt, CIC | 1990–1991)
As part of IIARI’s 125th anniversary celebration, we’re pleased to recognize William Hunt, CIC, who served as IIARI President from 1990–1991.

In his interview, Bill notes some issues facing the industry during his tenure centered on market accessibility—a challenge that feels especially familiar today. He reflects on the significant pressures around automobile insurance issues and credit union investment matters, which shaped much of the association’s advocacy work at the time. Bill also highlights the appointment of a Finance Committee during his presidency, strengthening IIARI’s governance and financial oversight.

Thank you, Bill, for your leadership and contributions to IIARI and Rhode Island’s independent insurance community.
https://loom.ly/tjLQ42A

12/15/2025

IIARI Past President Spotlight: Brian Hunter (2000–2001)
As we continue celebrating IIARI’s 125th anniversary year, we’re honored to highlight Brian Hunter, who served as IIARI President from 2000–2001.

In his interview, Brian reflects on the importance of strong leadership during a time of change in our industry, the value of collaboration among independent agents, and the role IIARI plays in advocacy, education, and professional connection. He also shares what he’s most proud of from his term and why continued involvement with IIARI remains critical for the future of the independent agency system.

We thank Brian for his leadership, service, and lasting contributions to IIARI and the Rhode Island insurance community. https://loom.ly/EJs2sL0

12/10/2025

As we close out IIARI’s 125th Anniversary year, we are excited to begin sharing a special series of conversations with our Past Presidents—leaders whose commitment and vision have shaped our association for more than a century.

We’re proud to kick off the series with Mark Matrone, CIC, who served as IIARI President from 2004–2005. His reflections offer a meaningful look at the evolution of our industry and the strength of our independent agent community.

Join us as we honor the individuals who helped build IIARI’s legacy and continue to inspire our work today.

https://loom.ly/aLFj-Rg

For our 125th Anniversary, Mark Male, President and CEO interviewed Past Presidents of IIARI. This is the interview with Mark Matrone CIC, who served as pres...

12/09/2025

Thanks to our 2025 Gold Sponsor, Narragansett Bay Insurance, for supporting the Rhode Island Independent Agents' 125th Anniversary Year!

12/01/2025

Thanks to our 2025 Gold Sponsor, Progressive, for supporting the Rhode Island Independent Agents' 125th Anniversary Year!

11/21/2025

Today we’re proud to celebrate 20 years of service and leadership from Marcia Almeida Berthiaume, AAI, ACSR, AIS, CPIA!

As IIARI’s State Account Manager, Marcia has supported agencies across Rhode Island with expertise, care, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed.

Her work as Emerging Leaders Liaison reflects her passion for welcoming new professionals into our community and encouraging the next generation of independent agents.

Marcia, thank you for two decades of heart, dedication, and quiet leadership. Your impact reaches far beyond your titles — it lives in the people you’ve helped and the relationships you’ve built! 💙

11/20/2025

Thanks to our 2025 Gold Sponsor, SELECTIVE, for supporting the Rhode Island Independent Agents' 125th Anniversary Year!

11/06/2025

Thanks to our 2025 Gold Sponsor, Liberty Mutual Insurance | Safeco, for supporting the Rhode Island Independent Agents' 125th Anniversary Year!

10/17/2025

Two Weeks Until GetLYIT 2025!
October 28–30 | Virtual | FREE

Get ready for three days of powerful, tech-driven insights designed exclusively for independent insurance agencies. Each day features three dynamic sessions focused on helping your agency work smarter, not harder.

💡 Why You’ll Want to Tune In:
Every session delivers practical takeaways to help you:
-Leverage AI and automation for real results
-Optimize your tech stack (ditch the time wasters!)
-Master tools and strategies for agency success
-Lead with confidence and drive team adoption

Don’t miss this chance to level up your agency’s productivity and innovation.
👉 Register today: https://loom.ly/fbSupLs