Hidden Heroes of Insurance Professionals

2. What inspires you to be part of Insurance Professionals and what prompted you to join?

When I was 19 and moving away from home for the first time, my Insurance Agent told me to join the Vermont Association of Insurance Women as soon as I got settled in my new apartment. Thru her recommendation I contacted the President and let her know I wanted to join. Six years later I moved to New Hampshire and transferred my membership to the NH Insurance Women’s League. Through the Association I took the INS series of courses and started my CPCU studies. Education, Fellowship and Loyalty to the Insurance Industry were the reason to join and belonging is the reason to stay. I am inspired by the events, camaraderie, speakers with interesting topics at all levels of the organization.

3. Describe a memorable collaborative effort, such as a committee, task force, or program, where you worked effectively with others to achieve a common goal.

I believe in participating to get the most out of my membership. With that said, there are many memorable committees. My favorites at the local level were Safety and Community Service. It was many years ago that we worked together with the NFPA to create a “Learn Not to Burn” curriculum for Preschool Providers. I worked directly with the Daycare Providers Association and the Manchester NH Fire Chief to present the materials to Daycare Providers. That was very rewarding! Most recently I have worked with the Member Engagement & Services Task Force on the FIT Initiative by posting on our Facebook Page. There are two of us that meet regularly to decide the topic to post. It is exciting to get a lot of “likes” and “comments”.

4. What is one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had as a member, whether it was a meeting, a specific project, or a challenging situation you encountered?

We had a guest speaker at a NH Council meeting a number of years ago who spoke on Time & Stress Management. He reminded us you can only control 2 things. Your own thoughts and actions. This statement lifted the weight of the world off my shoulders. When I feel stressed, I remind myself it is not being caused by others but is caused by my own reaction to what is happening. You cannot control other people, however, you can inspire them, influence them, and try to educate them to make better choices.

5. What is a good tip on how to share the benefits of membership with an employer? 

Be sure to let them know everything we learn, participate in, are awarded, and share that knowledge with co-workers and clients. I often will say something in a meeting along the lines of “I was at an IAIP meeting the other day and we were talking about this exact subject, here is what I learned…”

6. What Insurance Professionals programs have you taken that you would highly recommend to another member?

Depending on your position and goals, The Certified Leadership Professional series and new ACR courses are very good. However, the Confidence While Communicating course is excellent practice for everyone.

7. Our organization’s vision statement includes:  Insurance Professionals is the leading provider of education, skills enhancement and leadership development to members and partners of our industry. Which part of our Vision statement do you feel has had the biggest impact on your personal or professional growth?

Leadership Development gave me the opportunity to practice at the local level with the Comprehensive Manual and now Website providing me the guidance I needed to serve as committee chairs and officers. I used these skills to confidently lead the NH Chapter CPCU Society as President. After serving in that role, I became the NH Council Director. As part of my career, I was a team leader and served as an Interim Commercial Lines Manager.

8. What are your hobbies, interests, or a particular cause you are most passionate about?

I enjoy knitting. I find it relaxing as well as providing a sense of accomplishment when the project is complete. It helps to pass the time while traveling as a passenger. I love spending time with my family swimming, kayaking, fishing, and playing games.

About the Author

Regina Lemanowicz, CLP

Regina has been a member since 2002 and her primary association is the San Diego Association of Insurance Professionals. She currently serves as the Secretary for SDAIP as well as the chair for Awards, Bylaws and Newsletter.

On the Regional level, Regina is the Region VII Marketing Director.  She also serves as the Co-Chair of the International Member Engagement and Services Task Force.

She has served as the Assistant to the California Council Director and the Assistant to the Regional Vice President. Regina serves on the 2024-2026 California Council Team as Consultant to the Council Director and Public relations liaison.

Regina retired in 2014 and in her spare time she loves to travel, cruise and spend numerous hours in her dedicated craft room.