The Foundation for Financial Service Professionals has announced the recipients of the Kenneth Black Jr. Journal Author Awards for articles published in the Journal of Financial Service Professionals in 2023. Since 1988, the Foundation has recognized the top three articles published in a specific volume (six issues within the same calendar year) with these annual awards.

In celebration of Financial Literacy Month, Life Happens has created a social media toolkit of posts and graphics available to all members who utilize their social media platforms to raise awareness of the importance of financial literacy. The images are co-branded with both the NAIFA and Life Happens logos.

Mike Paffhausen’s journey from a civil engineering graduate to the owner of the Mike Paffhausen State Farm Agency in Butte, Montana, is a tale of finding one's true calling beyond the confines of traditional career paths. His transition into the insurance sector was largely influenced by his desire to help others navigate their financial lives, a passion ignited by a book on financial literacy he received upon graduating from Carroll College. This newfound purpose led him to leave a budding career in engineering to join the family legacy at State Farm, driven by the dream of making a tangible difference in people’s lives through financial services. Eventually, this led him to take over a State Farm agency, where he utilizes his engineering skills in systematic planning and problem-solving to assist his clients through their toughest days. His dedication and impact in the field were recognized when he became a 2023 Advisor Today 4 under 40 award winner which highlighted his contributions to the industry and his community. 

Beyond the professional success Paffhausen's commitment to financial literacy didn't stop with his clients. Paffhausen is actively involved with NAIFA and as the 2022 state president of NAIFA-Montana saw him spearheading a campaign to mandate a financial literacy course for high school students in Montana. This initiative, borne from his own realization of the lack of financial education in schools, showcases his commitment to empowering the next generation with essential financial skills. Through NAIFA, Paffhausen has been instrumental in turning this vision into law, ensuring that future high school graduates in Montana are equipped with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions.

Paffhausen's story is not just about a career shift but a profound journey towards making a difference in the community through financial education and literacy. His efforts highlight the importance of personal finance knowledge and the significant role professionals in our industry can play in advocating for educational reform. Read the full story of Mike Paffhausen’s journey and his impact on financial literacy education, on Insurance News Net.

April is National Financial Literacy Month, an annual observation NAIFA wholeheartedly agrees with. But why is financial literacy important and what are we doing about it?

Out of the work that NAIFA has done through its Limited & Extended Care Planning Center spearheaded by Carroll Golden, best-selling author of three books on funding a dignified life and caregiving, as well as the organizer of NAIFA's Legislative Working Group that focuses on state and federal issues that will affect producers, we are proud to announce that we're continuing to expand our work in the Medicare space by partnering with Medicarians Vegas 2024. 

Medicarians is the home of senior health, wealth, and AgeTech. Set for April 8th - 10th, 2024, at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, this event is a must-attend for those looking to navigate the future of the industry with confidence. This will be the only place to network and learn from more than 2,500 participants across this sector. NAIFA and Medicarians are partnering together to bring NAIFA's legislative risk knowledge to attendees and ensure that producers are aware of upcoming changes in the proposed final rule. 

NAIFA’s Congressional Conference is where you get to advocate for your business, peers, clients, and communities right at the heart of policy-making in Washington, D.C. It’s a direct line to influencing the decisions that affect millions who depend on your guidance. Engaging with Congress members this May isn’t just about representing your own interests; it's about voicing the collective needs of the financial services industry and the families and businesses that rely on you.

Have you ever wondered how to connect with prospects effortlessly? Imagine being able to establish meaningful relationships with anyone, anywhere, and at any time, regardless of the setting or circumstance. Surprisingly, it's not your technical knowledge of products and services that you can provide that forges these connections. Instead, it's your proficiency in developing essential soft skills that transform prospects into loyal clients.

Ronald Koehler: A Lifetime of Financial Planning Excellence and Advocacy

Ronald Koehler, ChFC, LUTCF, a veteran financial planner and loyal NAIFA member since 1984 from Galesburg, IL, has dedicated an impressive four decades to the industry. His impact resonates not only within his local community but also across the broader landscape of financial planning advocacy. In an exclusive interview, Koehler shared profound insights into his career journey, emphasizing his involvement with NAIFA (National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors) and the pivotal role of mentorship in shaping the future of financial advising.

Koehler's odyssey commenced in 1984, fresh out of Iowa State University in Ames, IA. Koehler's professional trajectory led him to Galesburg, where he is currently a Partner at Charterpoint Wealth Strategies.

Carina Hatfield is a Life Underwriting Training Council Fellow (LUTCF), Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist (CLCS), and Life and Annuity Certified Professional (LACP). As a third-generation insurance agent, she specializes in property and casualty insurance and works with locally owned businesses. Carina serves NAIFA as a National Trustee and a moderator for Pennsylvania’s Leadership in Life Institute. She is also the immediate past President of NAIFA Pennsylvania. Recently, Carina helped develop the organization’s new online LACP prep course. Her passion and dedication to the association earned her the 2020 Young Advisor Team Leader of the Year award.

Jill Judd is a distinguished Life Underwriting Training Council Fellow (LUTCF), Financial Services Specialist (FSS), and Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) with extensive experience in the insurance industry. Her professional mission is to provide individuals with the necessary tools and resources to manage the risks of everyday life, recover from unexpected events, and achieve their aspirations. Jill's expertise in the field has also led her to serve as a past President of NAIFA.

Before her career in financial services, Jill was an accomplished marketer who ran an advertising and marketing firm. Today, she leverages her knowledge and skills in the insurance industry to help clients navigate complex financial situations and make informed decisions about their future.