On Wednesday, June 3, 2009 during the 13th Annual ACE America'sClaim Event, John Foster accepted his award for being named the2009 Claim Professional of the Year. The award, which is sponsoredby New England law firm Smith & Brink, P.C. and ClaimsMagazine, recognizes overall excellence in the claim-handlingarena.

Recipients have demonstrated an earnest commitment in upholdingthe integrity of solid industry practices while actively seekingways to improve claim processes. A glowing nomination form and animpressive track record of innovation indicated that Fosterembodies these ideals, and Lauren Wilkins, shareholder and managingdirector of Smith & Brink, and Eric Gilkey, editor in chief ofClaims Magazine, were all too happy to bestow this honoron such a worthy individual in front of a full crowd in the RomanBallroom of Caesars Palace, Las Vegas.

"I'd like to say that selecting this year's Claim Professionalof the Year was difficult," said Gilkey. "However, John's record ofimplementing customer service and continuing education initiatives-- not to mention his ability to create a dynamic and engaging workenvironment -- positioned him as the candidate to beat from thebeginning of the process. His leadership and dedication serve as anexample for others in the claim industry to follow, so we're verypleased to recognize his efforts with this award."