There is a tremendous lack of diversity in financial services and the average age of financial advisors is 57. Part of NAIFA's mission is to help more people become aware of careers in financial services and to create a healthy, diverse workforce. Colleges and universities are filled with America's next generation of agents and advisors. NAIFA wants to be sure that these bright minds are equipped with the resources and a network to get their careers started in the right direction. NAIFA engages with these students through our Future Leaders program and as a gold sponsor at the Gamma Iota Sigma Conference, a professional fraternity for students interested in insurance, risk management, and actuarial science.

Last week NAIFA participated as a Gold Sponsor for the 51st Annual Gamma Iota Sigma conference in Charlotte. More than 600 students from across the country participated in the event to learn more about careers in the insurance industry. Russell Meek, a New York Life Agent and a loyal NAIFA member since 1988, is currently a senior instructor at Missouri State University in the Finance and Risk Department. Meek also serves as a faculty liaison to the GIS chapter. Thanks to Russell for paying it forward to the next generation!

This week, more than 70 college students will participate in the first session of NAIFA's 4th Future Leaders program. The four-session program breaks down the complex industry to help students understand the different career pathways that exist and aid in helping them find their right fit. Each session is led by NAIFA members representing different practice areas. Students have the opportunity to engage with these dynamic advisors and agents and walk away from the program with several contacts in the industry. The speakers for this session of Future Leaders are: Delvin Joyce, CLU, ChFC, Evelyn Gellar, LUTCF, RICP, CLTC, FSCP, CDFA, Cheryl Canzanella, LUTCF, CLU, ChSNC, Mimie Yoon-Lee, Derek Scheetz, John D. Richardson, RICP, LACP, and Chris Gandy, LACP.

If you know of a college student interested in our industry, have them register today for our fall Future Leaders program.