Ryan Scritchlow, an insurance agent with COUNTRY Financial in Bloomington, IL, brings an entrepreneurial mindset and a passion for building into his work in financial services.

Before entering the industry, Ryan was already starting businesses, launching his first company in college and developing a strong interest in creating systems, solving problems, and working with people. What ultimately drew him to financial services was the realization that it offered the same opportunity to build, just in a different way. From developing a business and structuring policies to building long term client relationships, the role aligned naturally with his strengths.

Les Robinson’s path into financial services was shaped by a deeply personal experience. While studying finance in college, his family faced a series of crises at once. His grandmother required care, and at the same time his father suffered a heart attack. Watching how overwhelming and financially disruptive that period became left a lasting impression. It also sparked a realization that there had to be a better way for families to prepare. That moment set the direction for a career focused on long-term care and helping others avoid the same challenges.

Stan Walton has spent decades building a career centered on people, purpose, and long-term impact. Based in Edmond, Oklahoma with State Farm, Stan serves as a sales leader supporting 56 independent contractor agents across the Oklahoma City market. His work spans both property and casualty and financial services, with a particular passion for helping customers and agents navigate the often-overlooked areas of life insurance, retirement planning, and legacy strategies.

Most people picture a financial advisor as someone who followed a straight path, graduated, got licensed and built a career. Someone who always had things neatly planned, never missing a step. Paul Szkotak, ChFC took a different route, one shaped by experience, not perfection. It is “realness” that’s obvious in the way he meets people where they are without judgment.

For Semmes Hughs, a career in the insurance and financial services industry was both a natural path and a purposeful choice. Inspired early on by his father’s work as a property and casualty agent, and influenced by family already exploring the profession, he entered the business with a clear direction and an open mind. What began as an initial interest quickly evolved into a lifelong career centered on helping others and solving complex problems.

At Brian Ashe and Associates, Ltd., Brian H. Ashe has built a career that spans decades of experience, defined by leadership, service, and an unwavering commitment to both clients and the financial services profession. Based in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, his journey began with a simple suggestion and evolved into a legacy of influence at the local, state, national, and international levels.

Being a NAIFA member isn’t just something you do; it’s something you represent! Whether you’re attending an industry event, meeting with clients, or advocating on Capitol Hill, you’re part of a professional community that stands for expertise, ethics, and service.

NAIFA 100% Agencies ensure that every eligible producer within their ranks is a current and active NAIFA member.

NAIFA is proud to recognize KHI Solutions of Fort Dodge, Iowa, as the recipient of the 2025 NAIFA 100% Agency of the Year Award.

KHI Solutions, led by owners Brenda Eckard and Lynn Schreder and VP of Finance & Operations Misty Bethel, exemplifies the values and professionalism that define NAIFA’s membership. With over 30 NAIFA members across their team, KHI’s ongoing commitment to excellence, ethical service, and full participation makes them a standout example of what it means to be #NAIFAProud.

Christopher Cain, CLU, is a loyal NAIFA member who has spent more than five decades building a career defined by service, consistency, and enduring client relationships. A member since 1973, Chris is being recognized as a 50-year National Quality Award Recipient—an extraordinary achievement that reflects a lifetime commitment to professionalism and excellence in the financial services industry.

Donald F. Vendetti, Jr., known to most as “Donny,” has been a proud NAIFA member since 1997 and currently serves clients from his office in South Dennis, Massachusetts, as part of Baystate Financial. Over nearly three decades in the financial services industry, Donny has built a career rooted in trust, education, and a genuine desire to help people achieve financial security and peace of mind.