Past NAIFA President, Robert O. Smith, JD, CLU, ChFC, LIC, will be inducted into The Michigan Insurance Hall of Fame. The event will take place during the 21^st annual induction ceremony on August 11, 2015, in Lansing.

Smith was nominated to the Hall of Fame for his dedication to the industry and remarkable service qualities.  An estate- and business-planning specialist, he served as President (2012-2013) of NAIFA and President (2006-2007) of NAIFA - Michigan. He was instrumental in safeguarding the financial security of over 75 million American families who rely on life insurance and annuities as a major part of their financial plan.

As a member of the NAIFA Board of Trustees from 2007 through 2014, including service as the 2012-2013 NAIFA President, Smith was an important leader of the insurance agent community during a critical time for the industry. Moreover, his national NAIFA leadership followed his tenure as a member and then Chair of the NAIFA Policy Formation Subcommittee, from 2002 through 2007. This group recommended policy positions on numerous important legislative and regulatory issues to the NAIFA Board of Trustees. Likewise, the agent community has looked to Smith to serve in various leadership roles at his local association, NAIFA-Grand Rapids, and at NAIFA-Michigan, where he served as the 2006-2007 President.

The Michigan Insurance Hall of Fame was established at Olivet College in 1994 as a way to pay tribute to individuals who have made a significant impact on the ability of the Michigan insurance and risk management industry to serve the public. An election panel, representing a cross-section of the insurance and risk management business, identifies leaders and/or innovators who have made significant contributions in five areas:  product/service development, education, recruiting new participants, legislative and regulatory activity, and exemplary service.

To nominate an insurance industry leader to the Michigan Insurance Hall of Fame or if you need additional information, please visit www.mihof.org or contact Carol Breed, administrator at Olivet College, at 269-749-7626.

Ayo Mseka
Editor-in-Chief