Mark Suhr, CIC, CPIA, of Seward, Nebraska, has been sworn in as President of PIA. He succeeds Ariel Rivera, MBA, CIC, CPIA, of Jacksonville, Florida, who will now serve as Immediate Past President.

Also initiated were national officers:
- David Gorman, CPIA, of Dallas, Texas, as President-Elect
- Vonda Copeland, CPIA, CWCU of Manhattan, Kansas as Vice President/ Treasurer
- Albert S. Pappalardo, Jr. MBA, CIC of New Orleans, Louisiana Secretary/Assistant Treasurer.
Each officer will serve a one-year term through September 30, 2026.
One key area of focus for Suhr is technology, including helping agents harness new tools, adapt to rapid change, and stay competitive in an evolving marketplace.
“AI is evolving the way all industries and businesses operate including insurance and the independent agency,” he said. “It is altering the way agents connect with clients and deliver service. PIA is already doing great work helping agents stay ahead of the curve from the Tech Council to the programs produced by the PIA National Carrier Council. I want to keep this momentum going providing resources and tools making it easier for agents to utilize emerging solutions to improve their operations.”




Leave a comment