The deadline for entries in the annual National Underwriter "Commercial Insurance Agency of the Year" award program has been extended until July 14.

For the seventh-straight year, principals representing three agency finalists will receive national recognition as role models for their peers--running successful sales organizations while serving as risk management consultants for clients.

The three finalists will win a free trip to New York City, where NU's 2008 Champion will be announced and given a trophy at a special ceremony on Sept. 26, with the remaining two finalists awarded a plaque for an Honorable Mention.

All three finalists will be profiled in NU's Sept. 29 edition. In addition, the finalists will participate in a special "NU Roundtable" following the award presentation to discuss "The Future of the Independent Agent." Highlights will appear in the Nov. 3 edition.

David Becker, president of last year's champion--Cottingham & Butler of Dubuque, Iowa--said winning the NU award "provides the stamp of credibility with prospects, opening up new opportunities that might otherwise have been unavailable. The award has served to reinforce our commitment and dedication to building a truly distinctive agency."

Paul Hering, managing principal and CEO of the 2006 champion, San Diego-based Barney & Barney, said "NU's award confirms for our current clients that they're with a great agency, and it also gives us credibility with prospective clients who may not be familiar with our firm. It's like a hand reaching out and opening doors for us."

Haake Companies of Overland Park, Kan., said being honored by NU in 2005 was like "winning the Heisman Trophy for insurance agencies."

Are you NU's 2008 Champion? For more details and an entry form, go to www.propertyandcasualtyinsurancenews.com and click on the "Agency of the Year" logo at the bottom of NU's home page. The entry form is listed as an Associated Image.

Fill out the application, put together the supporting material (all of which is kept strictly confidential) and include an essay of 3,000 words or less on "What Makes My Agency An Outstanding Sales and Service Organization?" Submit the complete package no later than July 14.

Insurers, managing general agents and others may also contact NU to suggest worthy candidates, with third-party nominations due by June 6. NU will contact nominated agencies to see if they are interested in entering. However, third-party nominations are not required, and all agencies are welcome to enter.

Good luck!

Special Reports /

NU Extends Entry Deadline For Agency Of The Year Award

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