Chapter Press Releases, Announcements & Award Recipients
NABIP IL State Chapter Announces 2025-26 Leadership
NABIP Illinois State Chapter Announces 2025–2026 Leadership Team
Schaumburg, Illinois — The Illinois State Chapter of the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) proudly welcomes its newly elected officers and appointed committee leaders for the 2025–2026 term, effective July 1, 2025.
At the helm this year is Sara Walker-Hite, Owner and Principal Advisor of Silver Wolf Insurance Services LLC in Savoy, Illinois, who will serve as NABIP Illinois State Chapter President. With over 19 years of experience in the health and life insurance industry, Sara is known for her strong leadership, advocacy, and commitment to empowering brokers and clients across the state.
Joining her on the 2025–2026 Executive Board are:
- President-Elect: TJ Bullock, President, Bullock Inc
- Vice-President: Missie Shepherd, President, Way Insurance Services
- Past President: Lou Reginelli, President, LPR Insurance Agency
- Secretary: Cara Kahan, CEP, 1706 Advisors
- Treasurer: Laura Blomgren, Managing Member, Peridot Financial Group LLC
To support the strategic goals and member engagement efforts of the chapter, several professionals have been appointed to lead key committees:
- Marketing and Communications Chair: Katie Knox, Group Marketing Services
- PAC Chair: Jerry Jackson, Jackson Financial
- Professional Development Chair: Robert Slayton, Slayton Insurance
- Member Recognition and Awards Chair: Heather John, Way Insurance Services
- Membership Co-Chairs: Sherry Kirksy, iSolved and Lisa Cawley, Benevise
- Legislative Co-Chairs: Missie Shepherd of Way Insurance Services, Joshua P. Garrett of Group Marketing Services, and Carrie Espinosa of Horizon Benefits.
“NABIP Illinois is honored to be led by such a dynamic and experienced group of professionals who are deeply committed to advancing our industry,” said incoming President, Sara Walk-Hite. “Together, we bring a diverse range of expertise, energy, and passion to serve our members and advocate on behalf of the clients and communities we support.”
NABIP Illinois remains dedicated to professional development, ethical leadership, and legislative advocacy, serving as the trusted voice for health insurance and employee benefits professionals throughout the state.
To learn more about NABIP Illinois and upcoming initiatives, visit https://nabipillinois.org.
Media Contact:
Katie Knox
Email: [email protected]
The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) is the premier association for health insurance agents, brokers, consultants, and benefit professionals across the United States.
Press release: NABIP Illinois Honors Carrie Espinosa with Distinguished Service Award
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Contact: Lou Reginelli, NABIP Illinois President
Phone: 630-778-6471
Email: Info@NABIPHeartofIL.org
NABIP Illinois Honors Carrie Espinosa with Distinguished Service Award
Schaumburg, IL – May 7, 2025 - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) Illinois proudly announces that Carrie Espinosa, Advisor-Broker-Advocate at Horizon Benefit Services, has been honored with the NABIP Illinois Distinguished Service Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates Carrie's unwavering commitment to the healthcare and insurance industry, her exemplary leadership, and her dedication to public service.
A Decade of Dedication to NABIP
Carrie Espinosa has been a dedicated member of NABIP since June 13, 2013. Over the past decade, she has demonstrated her commitment to the organization's mission, advocating for leadership and excellence in healthcare and insurance. As a result of her tireless efforts and passion, Carrie has made a lasting impact on both the industry and the communities she serves.
Leadership and Service at All Levels
Carrie has held numerous leadership positions at the national, state, and chapter levels, significantly contributing to NABIP’s goals. Her key roles include:
- Convention Delegate (2022, 2024)
- Legislative Chair for NABIP Suburban Chicago (2021–2025)
- Board Member for NABIP Chicago Northeast and Suburban Chicago chapters (2016–2025)
As Legislative Chair, Carrie has been a powerful advocate, ensuring that policy updates and advocacy efforts are effectively communicated to members. She has co-organized advocacy initiatives in Washington, D.C., and Springfield, Illinois, reinforcing NABIP’s presence and influence across the state.
Industry Engagement and Community Service
Beyond her involvement with NABIP, Carrie serves on the board of Assistance in Healthcare Zion, Lake County Workforce Development and the Greater Waukegan Development Coalition (GEDC) as well as contributes to the Senior Service Coalition of Lake County. She has also held leadership roles with the Lake County Chamber of Commerce, Athena PowerLink, and the Latino Advisory Committee for Blue Cross.
Her commitment to public service is evident through her work with community organizations, including leadership within her church’s Awana program and active participation in local business and healthcare initiatives.
Recognition and Professional Contributions
Carrie Espinosa is a graduate of the NABIP Leadership Academy (2021-2022 Class) and a two-time LPRT qualifier. Her efforts to strengthen NABIP’s membership have resulted in the successful recruitment of new members, further enhancing the organization’s outreach.
As a frequent speaker and advocate, Carrie actively engages in educational initiatives through NABIP chapter meetings, PULSE 3rd Thursday webinars, and other public forums.
A Leader Making a Difference
The NABIP Illinois Distinguished Service Award honors Carrie Espinosa’s leadership, dedication to legislative advocacy, and her commitment to improving the lives of those in her community. NABIP Illinois congratulates Carrie on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to her continued impact in the insurance and healthcare sectors.
About The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals
NABIP is the leading organization for health insurance and employee benefits professionals, advocating for sound public-policy solutions and providing professional development opportunities for over 100,000 licensed health insurance agents, brokers, and benefit professionals nationwide.
About NABIP Heart of Illinois
NABIP Illinois is a professional local chapter of the NABIP association dedicated to advocating for health insurance professionals and the clients they serve. We provide education, resources, and support to ensure individuals and businesses have access to expert guidance in an ever-changing healthcare landscape.
NABIP’s free Agent Finder tool to help locate a licensed professional: https://nabip.org/looking-for-an-agent/find-an-agent.
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NABIP Illinois State Chapter Recognized with NABIP’s Prestigious Gold Certification
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 28, 2025
NABIP Illinois State Chapter Awarded Prestigious Gold Certification
Schaumburg, Illinois (March 28, 2025) – The NABIP Illinois State Chapter has been honored with the prestigious Gold Certification from the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP), awarded on March 25, 2025.
This recognition is part of NABIP's Chapter Certification Program, an ongoing initiative that highlights chapters demonstrating excellence throughout the year.
“NABIP members have a profound influence on healthcare access for individuals, families, and businesses across their communities. We are grateful for the tireless efforts of the NABIP Illinois State Chapter in developing its chapter, and we are proud to present them with this well-earned award,” said Jessica Brooks-Woods, CEO of NABIP.
“The NABIP Illinois State Chapter has set a remarkable example of commitment to enhancing member opportunities through effective chapter development,” said Lou Reginelli, President of NABIP Illinois State Chapter. “This year, we organized monthly industry updates on the third Thursday of every month, providing our members with valuable insights into industry trends, legislative matters, and operational updates. These initiatives, along with many others, have set a high standard for excellence in the health insurance industry, which we are honored to represent.”
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About The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP)
NABIP is the leading organization for health insurance and employee benefits professionals, committed to ensuring all Americans have access to affordable, high-quality healthcare and benefits. To achieve this mission, NABIP advocates for sound public policies and supports the professional development of its members. Representing over 100,000 health insurance agents, brokers, general agents, consultants, and benefit professionals, NABIP operates through more than 200 chapters nationwide.
For more information, please contact Lou Reginelli at 630-778-6471 or email [email protected].
NABIP Illinois State Chapter Recognized with the Blue Ribbon of Excellence Award
Press Release: NABIP Illinois Responds to Health Alliance's Decision to Exit Multiple Products Lines in 2026
February 28, 2025
Press Contact: Sara Walker-Hite, NABIP Illinois President-Elect
Phone: 217-766-9378
Email: [email protected]
NABIP Illinois Responds to Health Alliance’s Decision to Exit Multiple Product Lines in 2026
Champaign, IL – March 1, 2025 - The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) Illinois acknowledges the recent announcement from Carle Health regarding the discontinuation of Health Alliance and FirstCarolinaCare health plans across all lines of business except for Medicare Advantage, effective January 1, 2026. This decision will impact approximately 240,000 members, as well as hundreds of employees who will be affected by the restructuring.
"We recognize the significant disruption this will cause for individuals, families, and businesses currently insured through Health Alliance. Ensuring a smooth transition for affected members in our communities is a priority, and we strongly encourage those impacted to consult with their licensed health insurance agent or broker for guidance on alternative coverage options and next steps. Those without an agent can utilize NABIP’s free Agent Finder tool to locate a qualified professional to assist them." Said Sara Walker-Hite, NABIP Illinois President-Elect.
Additionally, NABIP Illinois extends its deepest sympathies to the employees facing job losses as a result of this transition. “We understand the profound impact this will have on employees and their families, and our thoughts are with them during this difficult time,” added Lou Reginelli, NABIP Illinois President.
As additional information becomes available, it will be shared with you through various means.
About NABIP Illinois
NABIP Illinois is a professional association dedicated to advocating for health insurance professionals and the clients they serve. We provide education, resources, and support to ensure individuals and businesses have access to expert guidance in an ever-changing healthcare landscape.
NABIP’s free Agent Finder tool to help locate a licensed professional: https://nabip.org/looking-for-an-agent/find-an-agent.
Press Release: 2024 NABIP Illinois Distinguished Service Award Recipients
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Press Contact:
2024 NABIP Illinois Distinguished Service Award Recipients
Chicago, IL - On Thursday May 2nd, Melissa Shephard and Michael Wojcik received the NABIP Illinois Distinguish Service Award.
NABIP Illinois Chapter is proud to recognize our NABIP Illinois Distinguished Service Award winners, Missie Shepherd and Michael E. Wojcik. As NABIP members, we are part of a community of industry experts who are committed to making a difference. The recognition of Missie and Mike serves as a reminder of the impact that we can have on the insurance industry. By being a part of NABIP, we have the opportunity to be advocates for our industry, influencers on the hill, and creators of amazing opportunities for the future.
"Missie and Mike have shown exemplary leadership and volunteerism in the industry. Their advocacy and expertise have made a significant impact, and we are proud to recognize their contributions with this prestigious award."
- Lou Reginelli, NABIP Illinois President-Elect
Congratulations again to Missie Shepherd and Mike Wojcik on their well-deserved recognition. Their achievements are a testament to the value of NABIP membership and the incredible impact that we can have as members of this organization. Let us continue to work together to advocate for our industry, lead with passion and expertise, and create a bright future for insurance professionals across the United States.
For more information about NABIP and the Illinois Distinguished Service Award, please visit https://nabipillinois.org/Distinguished_Service_Award
Press Release: 2024 NABIP Illinois Gregory Smith Memorial Scholarship Recipient Announced
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 9, 2024 Press Contact: 2024 NABIP Illinois Gregory Smith Memorial Scholarship Recipient Announced Normal, IL - The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) is pleased to announce Jessica Duffield as the recipient of the 2024 NABIP Illinois Gregory Smith Memorial Scholarship. Jessica is a student at the Illinois State University (ISU) Katie School of Business and is majoring in Actuarial Science with minors in Computer Science and Insurance. She is set to graduate in May 2025 with a Bachelor's Degree in Science. The Katie School Annual Student Recognition Dinner will be held on Tuesday, April 9th in the Prairie Room at the Bone Student Center on the ISU campus at 200 N. University St in Normal. NABIP extends its congratulations to Jessica Duffield and thanks its members for their ongoing support of the scholarship program. Donations to the scholarship fund can be made online at https://giving.illinoisstate.edu/fund/isahu-gregory-smith-memorial-insurance-scholarship/ For more information about the NABIP Illinois Gregory Smith Memorial Scholarship, please visit https://nabipillinois.org/Scholarship |
NABIP Illinois Funds 2024 Illinois Insurance Industry Economic Impact Report
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 18, 2024
Press Contact: Sara Walker-Hite, NABIP Illinois President
NABIP Illinois Funds 2024 Illinois Insurance Industry Economic Impact Report
Springfield, IL - The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) Illinois is proud to announce its funding of the 2024 Illinois Insurance Industry Economic Impact Report. The study, conducted by the ISU's Katie School of Business, focused on the supply side of the industry, analyzing insurers as producers of services and employment.
The study was funded in part by NABIP Illinois, BIG I Illinois, NAIFA Illinois, ILHIC, IAMIC, and IIA. The report revealed that the State of Illinois collected $608,507,164 from the insurance industry in 2022, with the two largest categories being privilege taxes and retaliatory taxes related to taxes on insurance premiums.
The insurance industry plays a crucial role in offering financial protection to policyholders, households, and businesses from financial loss covered under insurance policies. The industry has an exceptional impact on both the economy of Illinois and the U.S. economy as a whole, offering well-paying, steady employment to thousands of Illinois residents.
The Illinois insurance industry’s employment, contribution to state GDP, premiums written, losses paid, and investments places it as one of the top-ranking industries in the nation.
NABIP Illinois is committed to supporting the insurance industry and promoting economic growth in the state. For more information on the 2024 Illinois Insurance Industry Economic Impact Report, please visit https://giving.illinoisstate.edu/fund/isahu-gregory-smith-memorial-insurance-scholarship/
About The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals Illinois
NABIP Illinois is dedicated to advancing the interests of its members and advocating for sound public-policy solutions in the insurance industry. NABIP Illinois represents and provides professional development opportunities for licensed health insurance agents, brokers, general agents, consultants, and benefit professionals across the state.
For more information visit https://nabipillinois.org/Illinois_Insurance_Industry_Economic_Impact_Study
#NABIP #PressRelease #Illinois #EconomicImpact
Press Release, NABIP Illinois State Chapter Recognized with NABIP’s Prestigious Silver Certification
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 27, 2023
NABIP Illinois State Chapter Recognized with NABIP’s Prestigious Silver Certification
Schaumburg, Illinois (September 27, 2023) — National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP) Illinois was recently recognized with Silver Certification on September 27, 2023.
“The leadership of NABIP members has a far-reaching impact on providing for the healthcare needs of individuals, families, and business in their communities. We are grateful for NABIP Illinois’ hard work with chapter development and recognize them for their efforts with this well-deserved award,” said NABIP CEO Janet Trautwein.
“NABIP Illinois exemplifies the dedication to providing the best opportunities for our members through their dedication to chapter development” said Sara Walker-Hite president of NABIP Illinois.
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NABIP is the preeminent organization for health insurance and employee benefits professionals, working diligently to ensure all Americans have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare and related benefits. To meet that vital mission, NABIP advances the interests of its members and advocates for sound public-policy solutions. NABIP represents and provides professional development opportunities for more than 100,000 health insurance agents, brokers, general agents, consultants, and benefit professionals through more than 200 chapters across America.
For more information, please contact Sara Walker-Hite via email at [email protected]
#PressRelease #NABIP #NABIPIL
2023 Greg Smith Distinguish Service Award Recipients Joshua P. Garrett and Sara Walker-Hite
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Press Contact:
July 13, 2023 Lou Reginelli, NABIP Illinois President-Elect
Phone: 630-917-5500
Email: [email protected]
Greg Smith Distinguish Service Award Recipients Joshua P. Garrett and Sara Walker-Hite
Peoria, Illinois – "The Greg Smith Distinguished Service Award honors NABIP Illinois Chapter (ISAHU) members who have contributed significantly above and beyond what is normally called for in connection with NABIP association volunteer service at the local, state and/or national level over an extended period of time.
It's my pleasure to recognize our two 2023 recipients Joshua Garrett REBC, Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Group Marketing Services, Inc and Sara Walker-Hite, Account Executive at Health Alliance Medical Plans.
Our first recipient is a well-known and respected leader. Joshua P. Garrett is committed to keeping our industry active and private. He has been instrumental in working together with legislators, coalition partners, fellow members and our lobbyist, Evan Manning, to soften and/or defeat any legislative issues harmful to our industry.
Our second award recipient currently serves on the local, state and regional levels along with being recognized as one of our top association leaders. She is a great ambassador those seeking solutions in the health insurance sector. Sara Walker-Hite has served since 2014 as volunteer board member whilst mentoring new industry leaders. Her expertise and organizational skills help chapter leaders provide educational value thru meetings, expos and summits which provides chapter financial growth and prosperity.
Thank you both for all your hard work and advocacy." Lou Reginelli, NABIP Illinois President-Elect
About The National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals
NABIP is the preeminent organization for health insurance and employee benefits professionals, working diligently to ensure all Americans have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare and related benefits. To meet that vital mission, NABIP advances the interests of its members and advocates for sound public-policy solutions. NABIP represents and provides professional development opportunities for more than 100,000 licensed health insurance agents, brokers, general agents, consultants and benefit professionals through more than 200 chapters across America.
NABIP Illinois’ Mission Statement: NABIP Illinois will improve its members' abilities to meet the health, financial and retirement security needs of their clients through education, advocacy and professional development.
NABIP Illinois’ Vision Statement: Every American will have access to private sector solutions for health, financial and retirement security and the services of insurance professionals.
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Pictured: Sara Walker-Hite; Lou Reginelli; Joshua P. Garrett, REBC
CIAHU Member, Sara Walker-Hite, earns the President's 2023 NABIP Triple Crown
CIAHU Earns NABIP Legislative Excellence Award 2023
Press Release CIAHU earns the NABIP Legislative Excellence Award 2023.
CIAHU Earns NAHU Gold Certification 2022!
Press release CIAHU Earns NAHU Gold Certification for 2022
