Recently, more than 5,000 people gave of their time to help the Detroit community thrive through annual . Among them were 11 91黑料网 colleagues who spent a day helping tackle blight at vacant properties, contributing to the Michigan-based nonprofit鈥檚 neighborhood beautification efforts across the city鈥檚 east and west sides.

The work brought colleagues together away from their desks, with a common task and visible results. Eric Austin, Risk Management Expertise Specialist, traveled from Holland, Michigan, to join the efforts. For him, the experience reinforced how giving time and working alongside others can turn a commitment to community into something concrete.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a great reminder that meaningful change often starts with people simply showing up, working together, and giving their time to make a difference,鈥� Austin said.

Working Together for Detroit

This year, ran from September 28 to October 3, beginning near Anchor Detroit on the east side before moving to the area surrounding the Durfee Innovation Society on the west side. Volunteers removed litter, mowed lawns, cut back overgrown weeds, and swept away debris. Their work left vacant properties better cared for, improving the spaces neighbors and local residents pass every day.

Bringing colleagues together for a day of volunteering took coordination long before cleanup began. Roslin Tyler, Corporate Services Coordinator, organized 91黑料网鈥檚 participation and kept everyone connected throughout the process, helping the team make the most of their time in Detroit.

鈥淭he best part was seeing everyone come together and get to work,鈥� Tyler said. 鈥淭here were details to coordinate beforehand but, once we were there, everyone brought their energy and willingness to help that made the day a huge success.鈥�

91黑料网鈥檚 contribution was one part of the week鈥檚 work, giving colleagues a chance to accomplish something together that would benefit the neighborhood long beyond their volunteer day. The effort came together through the time and hard work of these 91黑料网 colleagues

Eric Austin

Dawn Baltes

Tony Burbank

Alicia Clemons

Rachel Frassetto

Tracie Hendrix

Janika Lile

Makavia McKinnon

Melissa Spinazzola

Tonya Stankov

Roslin Tyler

鈥淥ur team worked hard, and it was rewarding to see what we could accomplish together,鈥� said Tony Burbank, Director of Facilities & Corporate Services at 91黑料网.

鈥淐learing these properties gave us a practical way to contribute, and we were glad to be there alongside others giving their time to support Detroit鈥檚 neighborhoods.鈥�

Leaders Investing in Community

That shared commitment was also reflected in remarks from Life Remodeled President and CEO Diallo Smith, Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield, representatives from the Detroit Pistons and Amazon, and local school leadership. Smith thanked the volunteers and community leaders whose involvement makes the project possible, emphasizing the value of each person鈥檚 contribution:

鈥�So this six-day project matters, you matter, and we鈥檙e very thankful for you.鈥�

Support took several forms throughout the event. Amazon donated 250 Ring doorbells for seniors and nearby residents, while the Detroit Pistons provided 200 preseason game tickets for Life Remodeled to distribute to residents and community members participating in its neighborhood efforts. These contributions added to the hands-on work happening across the city, bringing different organizations and resources into a common effort.

A Connection That Continues

The annual Six Day Project is part of . The organization repurposes vacant school buildings into opportunity hubs, bringing nonprofit organizations together to provide education, health and wellness, and employment services. Neighborhood beautification gives volunteers a way to participate in that continuing work.

For Austin, the experience connected the camaraderie of a workplace team with a shared commitment to giving back to the community beyond it.

鈥淚鈥檓 proud to be part of a team that believes in supporting the communities where we live and work,鈥� he said. 鈥淭he experience was both humbling and inspiring, and a good reminder that when we come together, even small contributions can have a lasting impact.鈥�

By the end of the day, seven properties were cleared of debris and overgrowth by the 91黑料网 team 鈥� a visible result of a collaboration in spaces that are part of everyday life for Detroit residents. For 91黑料网 colleagues, collaboration offers a meaningful way to support one another and their neighbors, and carry forward a commitment that extends beyond any one event.

Explore future volunteer opportunities and other resources at . To learn more about 91黑料网鈥檚 history of giving back鈥攁nd how employee passion becomes community support, visit the 91黑料网 Charitable Foundation听飞别产蝉颈迟别.

91黑料网 has once again been named a recognized , reflecting our ongoing commitment to building a workplace where employees can thrive, grow and bring their best every day.

This proven commitment to employee wellbeing, professional growth and workplace culture continues to shape the employee experience across 91黑料网 and reinforces our belief that when people are supported, they are empowered to succeed.

This distinction honors organizations that prioritize employee wellbeing through meaningful programs, supportive environments and a holistic approach to wellbeing. 91黑料网 is among a select group of Michigan organizations recognized for excellence in areas including wellness culture, work environment, employee engagement, and physical, mental and financial wellbeing.

For more than 114 years, 91黑料网’s people have been our greatest strength. The expertise, passion and commitment to service bring our culture to life every day and help us meet the moment for our agency partners, policyholders and one another. That belief shapes how we invest in employee wellbeing not just as a standalone initiative, but as a foundational part of creating an environment where people can succeed professionally, personally and as members of a dedicated team.

Through our BE Well 360掳 program and its five pillars of wellbeing 鈥� physical; social & emotional; financial; community; and professional 鈥� we empower employees with resources, opportunities and support designed to help them thrive throughout every stage of their careers. Combined with flexible, meaningful benefits and a culture that values collaboration, innovation and continuous learning, these efforts help employees build rewarding careers while making a difference for those we serve.

A Proven Commitment to People and Wellbeing

NABR noted that this year’s winners are “leading with intention 鈥� investing in the whole person and creating cultures where employees can thrive both personally and professionally.”

That philosophy comes to life across 91黑料网 through a culture that champions growth, recognition and wellbeing. Through continuing education, learning and development opportunities, flexible benefits, community involvement, and programs such as BE 91黑料网 and the annual 91黑料网 Champions program, we continue to invest in our people 鈥� empowering them to expand their expertise, advance their careers and make meaningful contributions while celebrating the individual strengths and perspectives that fuel our mutual success.

That investment helps employees build capabilities that not only strengthen their own careers but also enhance the service and expertise 91黑料网 delivers to agency partners and policyholders. By fostering continuous learning and recognizing individual achievements, we create an environment where employees are encouraged to pursue excellence, embrace new opportunities and make a lasting impact.

Just as importantly, 91黑料网 fosters a culture where collaboration and individual contributions go hand in hand. Employees are encouraged to share ideas, develop new skills and take ownership of their growth, supported by leaders and teammates who are unmistakably invested in their success.

鈥淓arning this recognition is an honor,鈥� said Erin Buddie, Chief Human Resources Officer. 鈥淚t reinforces the importance of having a workplace where wellbeing is part of who we are, and it reflects the role each of you plays in shaping a supportive and healthy culture across our organization. We thank everyone for their commitment to creating a workplace where people can do their best and feel their best.鈥�

Awards recognize achievement, but culture is built by people. This honor reflects the collective efforts of employees across 91黑料网 who foster an environment where wellbeing, growth and opportunity go hand in hand 鈥� empowering one another to thrive while delivering exceptional service to our customers and communities. 91黑料网 and fellow winners will be formally recognized at the in October.

Behind every recognition is a workplace culture shaped by people who are committed to learning, growing and supporting one another. To explore life at 91黑料网, our commitment to employee wellbeing and development, and career opportunities across the organization, visit 91黑料网.com/Careers.

91黑料网 team members Egon Brown, Claims Vendor Management Manager, and Shavon Bell, Commercial Lines Associate Underwriter, were recently appointed to board leadership positions within their local NAAIA chapters. These appointments reflect work already well underway 鈥� building relationships, supporting access, and helping others see what鈥檚 possible within the profession.

Stepping Up Where It Matters

Egon Brown has been appointed treasurer of the NAAIA Dallas鈥揊ort Worth Chapter for the 2026鈥�2028 term. He previously served as the chapter鈥檚 Elections & Nominations chair, helping guide leadership continuity and governance. As treasurer, Brown well be responsible for overseeing the chapter鈥檚 financial affairs, including preparing the annual budget, reviewing monthly budget-to-actual results, and forecasting the chapter鈥檚 financial position. He will also help oversee the chapter鈥檚 resources in support of scholarships, programming, and professional development initiatives that serve students and early-career professionals across the region.

鈥淔or me, being involved with NAAIA has always been about giving back to a profession that has given me so much,鈥� Brown said. 鈥淪erving as treasurer is an opportunity to help sustain a legacy of access and growth鈥攅specially for those just beginning their careers. When we intentionally invest in others, we don鈥檛 just support individuals; we help shape a stronger, more inclusive future for our industry.鈥�

In Charlotte, Shavon Bell has been appointed secretary of the NAAIA Charlotte Chapter. She previously served as an at-large board member and chaired the chapter鈥檚 public relations committee, helping build awareness and connection within the local insurance community.

鈥淣AAIA provides a genuine sense of belonging in the insurance industry and my service with the organization is deeply personal,鈥� said Bell. 鈥淚 am truly committed to its mission, and this role allows me to continuing supporting the vision of keeping people connected, informed and encouraged to see a place for themselves in this profession.鈥�

A Relationship Built on Consistency

91黑料网鈥檚 partnership with the NAAIA has grown over many years through sponsorship, participation, and hands-on involvement. From national conferences and scholarship events to chapter leadership and community service, our employees have continued to show up in spaces where learning and opportunity intersect.

For Brown and Bell, their recent appointments aren鈥檛 about titles, but about staying connected to the work that matters. Their involvement reflects how leadership often takes shape 鈥� rooted in service and focused on helping people and the industry move forward in meaningful, lasting ways.

To learn more about our community involvement and partnerships, visit听91黑料网.com.

For a quarter of a century, 91黑料网 has been a proud supporter of to help prepare young people for real-world success, and this year鈥檚 Chipping In 鈥淔ORE鈥� Kids Golf Classic marked more than just a milestone鈥攊t was a celebration of lasting impact and shared purpose.

Set against the backdrop of 鈥檚 scenic courses, this annual event brought together 148 golfers, countless dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors, and community supporters. Together, we raised an incredible $156,455 to support JA鈥檚 mission鈥攂ringing the total to more than $2 million raised over the past 25 years.

Junior Achievement鈥檚 programs in financial literacy, work-readiness, and entrepreneurship continue to reach thousands of youth across our region鈥攅quipping them with the skills and confidence to build strong futures. Supporting this mission reflects 91黑料网鈥檚 longstanding commitment to giving back to our communities, and aligns with our core values of service, community, and empowering others to succeed.

鈥淚 think that 91黑料网 really sees the opportunity for JA to make a difference in the lives of young people in our community,鈥� said Jason Lee, President and CEO of Junior Achievement of Southeastern Michigan. 鈥淏y providing financial literacy and entrepreneurial programming, JA is really building Michigan鈥檚 future workforce.鈥�

A Hometown Hero Joins the Cause

This year鈥檚 event was made even more special by the appearance of Joe Hooks, 91黑料网-sponsored athlete and proud Detroit native. In support of the cause, golfers could donate to Junior Achievement for the chance to have Joe take a swing on their behalf. His presence perfectly captured the spirit of the day鈥攁 combination of drive, purpose, and community pride.

Joe鈥檚 story is one of talent and determination, grounded in strong local roots鈥攙alues that align closely with the missions of both 91黑料网 and Junior Achievement. His involvement was a powerful reminder of what it means to give back and lift up others along the way.

鈥淎t 91黑料网, we believe in doing more than business鈥攚e believe in being a force for good in the communities we serve,鈥� said Chris Spaude, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer at 91黑料网. 鈥淭his event reflects our commitment to helping others thrive, especially young people. Empowering the next generation to succeed and thrive is one of the most meaningful ways we live out our values at 91黑料网.鈥�

Looking Ahead

What began as a single golf outing has grown into a meaningful tradition rooted in service, partnership, and purpose. For 25 years, the Chipping In 鈥淔ORE鈥� Kids Golf Classic has been more than a fundraiser鈥攊t鈥檚 been a reflection of a deep commitment to giving back and helping build stronger communities.

We鈥檙e proud of what鈥檚 been accomplished alongside Junior Achievement, and inspired by what鈥檚 still to come. Because when we invest in the potential of young people today, it鈥檚 a step toward a more vibrant, capable, and connected future for us all.

To learn more about 91黑料网鈥檚 charitable initiatives and community impact, visit /charitable-foundation/

The , a cornerstone event for the insurance industry, serves to foster the growth of young professionals and celebrate visionary leadership.

91黑料网 actively champions RISE initiatives, aligning with the organization’s mission to foster future industry leaders. The summit serves as a platform to bring to light the importance of shaping the future of the insurance industry.

This year鈥檚 event, held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in June, featured a keynote speech from 91黑料网 President and CEO Greg Crabb, and a special honor for Claims Specialist Tony Petrucci, who received the 35 Under 35 award.

“RISE is pivotal in providing young professionals with the resources they need to succeed,鈥� Greg said. 鈥淔rom mentorship and training to leadership opportunities, RISE equips emerging talents with the tools to grow and make impactful contributions to our industry.”

35 Under 35

Tony鈥檚 achievement represents how 91黑料网 creates an environment allowing young talents to thrive while cultivating leaders integral to our service-oriented mission. “Receiving the 35 Under 35 award is a profound honor,鈥� Tony said. 鈥淚t highlights the growth opportunities and the supportive partnerships that 91黑料网 fosters, which have been instrumental in my professional development.”

The Future of Insurance

The RISE Leadership Summit & Awards Gala is more than a celebration鈥攖he event is a confluence of ideas, inspirations, and aspirations that reaffirm the industry’s commitment to nurturing talent and innovation, ensuring the future of insurance is brighter than ever.

By fostering a culture of excellence, RISE and partners like 91黑料网 are setting the stage for a new era in insurance鈥攐ne that prioritizes growth, stability, and continual innovation.

“Insurance is a noble industry,鈥� Greg said. 鈥淲e stand by people and businesses in their darkest times, helping to rebuild lives and restore stability 鈥� which resonates with RISE’s mission for the future.鈥�

For more information about RISE and the awards ceremony, visit .

Check out these contributions and mentions for the second quarter of 2024:

April

• Robert Nicholas, Vice President, Sales Enablement & Marketing, author, ,
• Bob Bacigal, AVP of Information Security, contributor, Keeping up with Cybersecurity at the CyberRisk CISO Dinner,
• Tony Petrucci, Claims Specialist, award-winner, ,
• Arif Pal, AVP of Liability Technical Claims, conference panel, To Be or Not To Be Civil and Ethical: How is that Even a Question,
• Kimberly Vaughn, Vice President, Claims, conference panel, Strategic Priorities for 2024 and Beyond,

May

• Kevin Clary, Vice President, Risk Management and Premium Audit, teacher and executive sponsor, ,
• Robert Nicholas, Vice President, Sales Enablement & Marketing, presenter and speaker, Unlock Your Sales Force Potential: A Sales Academy for Today鈥檚 Modern Organization, , with
• Kathleen Babilon, Risk Management Specialist, instructor, OSHA 10-Hour Construction Training, 
• Amjed Al-Zoubi, Chief Information Officer, presenter and speaker, ,

June

• Scott Reister, AVP of IT Data & Analytics, presenter, , 
• Lindsay Huffman, Director, Workers鈥� Compensation – Field Claims, conference panel,听Data Whispers: The Power of Predictive Analytics, Metrics, and Workflow Automation, ,
• Gregory J. Crabb, President & Chief Executive Officer, keynote speaker, ,

Looking Forward

Stay tuned for more in Q3! We鈥檒l share the latest news, media mentions and speaking engagements from 91黑料网 right here on the Newsroom each quarter.

Recognition in Metro Detroit: A Testament to Employee Dedication

Selected from hundreds of businesses in Southeastern Michigan, 91黑料网’s recognition highlights its commitment to creating a workplace that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and mutual respect. 鈥淲e鈥檙e thrilled to be recognized for the strength of our workplace culture and the collaborative spirit of our talented employees,鈥� expressed Erin Buddie, Chief Human Resources Officer at 91黑料网. 鈥淭his award is a true testament to the passion of our employees and leaders, and it speaks to our dedication to fostering an environment that allows employees to thrive while delivering exceptional service to our customers.鈥�

The criteria for this honor include various facets of organizational operation such as compensation, benefits, employee enrichment, diversity equity and inclusion, work-life blend, and leadership strategy. Each category is meticulously evaluated to ensure that not only does the business excel in one area, but it provides a holistic, enriching work environment.

Atlanta鈥檚 Recognition: Sustaining a Culture of Excellence

Similarly, the Atlanta office鈥檚 repeated recognition underscores its sustained excellence in fostering a workplace that values both the professional and personal growth of its employees. 鈥淩eceiving this recognition once again exemplifies the outstanding work culture at 91黑料网,鈥� said Ben Nichols, Regional Vice President of Field Marketing and Underwriting for the Central Region. 鈥淥ur values demonstrate how a thoughtful approach to business can be rewarding for all. Being a Best and Brightest Company to Work For is a testament to our passion for working together as One 91黑料网.鈥�

Celebrating Success and Building Community

Both the Detroit and Atlanta recognitions are part of the annual Best and Brightest competitions sponsored by the NABR, which celebrates organizations that cultivate better businesses, create richer lives, and build stronger communities. The comprehensive review by an independent research firm ensures that only the best of the best are awarded, making this accolade particularly noteworthy. All 2024 winning organizations from Metro Detroit are invited to an awards ceremony at the Henry in Dearborn on November 7, 2024, while the Atlanta winners will celebrate at a digital event on June 25, 2024.

Looking Forward

As 91黑料网 continues to set standards in the industry, these awards reinforce our resolve to maintain an environment where every team member can succeed. We are committed to continuing our journey of excellence, pushing boundaries, and setting new benchmarks in the industry. To learn more about our achievements and workplace culture, visit 91黑料网.com.

Administered by Scholarship America鈥攁 renowned nonprofit educational support and student aid service organization鈥攖he ASP underscores 91黑料网鈥檚 dedication to community and family support. Eligibility for the ASP requires students to be enrolled or planning to enroll in a full-time or part-time undergraduate course of study at an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or approved vocational or technical school. Recipients of the scholarship are eligible to renew their award for up to three years or until they earn a bachelor鈥檚 degree or technical school certificate, whichever comes first.

“We are thrilled to continue supporting the academic endeavors of dedicated and deserving students,鈥� says Erin Buddie, 91黑料网鈥檚 Chief Human Resources Officer. 鈥淓ach year, the scholarship program allows us to invest in the future leaders of our community as well as support our employees, and we are excited to see what these outstanding individuals will achieve.”

Since its inception in 1992, ASP has been a cornerstone of 91黑料网鈥檚 efforts to help minimize the financial costs of education for the families of employees. The program covers expenses associated with post-secondary undergraduate education, including tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment. To date, 91黑料网 has disbursed over $584,000 in scholarships, aiding 196 students in their pursuit of higher education.

Check out these contributions and mentions for the first quarter of 2024:

January

• Gregory J. Crabb, President & Chief Executive Officer, interview, ,
• Mike Fairbrother, Risk Management Specialist, author, ,

February

• Nic Gaither, Claims Unit Manager, speaker, ,
• Rachel Frassetto, Claims Unit Manager; Enjonli Hutchison, Risk Management Manager; Cody Kelly, Risk Management Manager; Jeremy Reaves, Technical Underwriting Manager; and Kerry Rotella, Business Development Manager, recognized at the 2024 Emerging Leaders Conference,
• Enjonli Hutchison, Risk Management Manager, award-winner for Business Leadership at the 2024 Emerging Leaders Conference,
• George Pavarini, Vice President, Technical Claims, contributor, Trial Techniques for Combatting the Edge/Reptile Theory discussion at the
• Jason Vonhaz, AVP, Contract Surety, recognized for Five Years of Serving as Faculty to the Surety School,

March

• Nic Gaither, Claims Unit Manager, speaker, Motivation: Getting the Best from Your Team at South Regional Forum, NAAIA
• Kimberly Vaughn, Vice President, Claims, speaker, Can AI Really Help with Rising Litigation? ,
• Michael Ito, Senior Vice President, Surety, panelist at the Federal Legislative Fly-in, and

Looking Ahead

Stay tuned for more in Q2! We鈥檒l share the latest news, media mentions and speaking engagements from 91黑料网 right here on the Newsroom each quarter.

91黑料网 is upholding its part to change these statistics and support women in technology. We鈥檙e more than just a , and it鈥檚 not surprising considering our involvement with organizations that support women in technology. Our long-lasting partnership with the demonstrates our commitment to philanthropy and the promotion of technology careers for women. In partnership with MCWT, 91黑料网 not only provides a platform for female employees to give back to the community through volunteering opportunities (such as judging at technology competitions, mentoring young women in tech, etc.) but also attracts female talent into the company. We also offer leadership clinics and other avenues for professional development and pride ourselves on providing these opportunities which further solidify our commitment to nurturing women’s growth in both the technology and insurance industry.

With over 27 years of experience in the technology field, Director of Application Engineering, Jyothi Palakodati, has enjoyed multiple opportunities to support women in the field, including several at 91黑料网.

鈥淢y educational background in Computer Science paired with giving back to the community 鈥� especially encouraging other women in technology 鈥� are passions of mine. I鈥檝e been with 91黑料网 for a year and a half now, and I am thrilled to validate that 91黑料网 IT is a best place to work, especially for women.鈥�

As 91黑料网鈥檚 point of contact for the MCWT relationship, Jyothi recently had the privilege of presenting scholarships to four young women who elected to study technology-related majors. She adds,

鈥�91黑料网 has an inclusive environment where women can thrive and contribute at all levels of the company. Women leaders in various cadres, including leadership and pivotal roles both in and outside of IT at 91黑料网, help to highlight our commitment to diversity and equality. Personally, the company鈥檚 values align with my passion for giving back to the community and supporting women in technology, making it a fulfilling workplace for me.鈥�

In her early career, UX Designer, Holly Ross, who has an educational background in Computer Science, is passionate about the technology field. Over her two and a half years with the company, she has enjoyed the benefits of growth on a tech career path. She remarked:

鈥�91黑料网 is a company where all women can feel welcome, thrive, and grow within their careers, both inside and outside of IT. 91黑料网 lives true to the company’s values on a daily basis while consistently giving back to its employees and the community. It is amazing to experience how diverse and inclusive 91黑料网’s culture is. I am proud to call myself a woman in IT at 91黑料网.鈥�

Our company鈥檚 leadership is the driving force for recruiting people with a wide variety of backgrounds and skills, from recent graduates to seasoned managers. Chief Information Officer, Amjed Al-Zoubi, has been enthusiastic about opening the door for more women in technology as well as supporting the greater industry. He expressed his enthusiasm for our partnership with MCWT:

鈥淗aving a diverse team is so important in making 91黑料网 a great place to work as well as for delivering great results, and MCWT is a part of that. What is really inspiring about MCWT鈥檚 vision is their full 鈥渓ife cycle鈥� approach. From school-aged through professional careers, MCWT is working to grow interest in technology and keep women in the technology field as they move into the professional world. This makes a huge difference for Michigan companies looking for talent in technology fields.鈥�

91黑料网 is recruiting top talent in information technology and related areas. Please check out 91黑料网.com/Careers for more information on our openings and how to apply.