When John Duni walked into his first job out of college on November 4, 1974, he had no idea it would be the start of a 50-year career in financial services—and a lifelong commitment to NAIFA.

Hired by Harold Morris at Southwestern Life Insurance Company in Washington, D.C., John recalls that joining NAIFA (then NALU) was not just encouraged—it was expected. “You’d sign your agent contract and then your NAIFA application. There was no choice. But I always thought that was great. If I was going to commit to the profession, I wanted to be fully in it.”

Brandon Chambers didn’t follow a traditional path into the financial services industry. After several years working in the chemical field with long, irregular hours, he began seeking a career that offered more purpose and better work-life balance. A call from a longtime friend—now his general agent—reignited a conversation about joining the Knights of Columbus as a field agent. With a leap of faith and a desire to serve others more meaningfully, Brandon entered the profession in 2017 and hasn’t looked back.

Chris Henderson, a dedicated member of NAIFA since 2014, has built a successful career in the financial services industry, making a lasting impact at both the local and national levels. Based in Madison, Wisconsin, Chris works with M3 Insurance, where he specializes in life insurance for both individuals and businesses, as well as executive benefits. For Chris, the opportunity to help people and meet new, interesting individuals keeps him motivated every day. His background in finance, combined with his business school education, led him to join M3 Insurance, where he has spent the past 20 years helping the company grow its financial services division, through his registration as an investment advisor representative with Global Retirement Partners, LLC, dba M3 Financial, an SEC registered investment advisor. Chris serves as Managing Director of M3 Financial.

Ashley K. Butler, a proud resident of Gilbert, Arizona, and a dedicated member of Alpha Omega Wealth, is a new NAIFA member as of 2024. Though relatively new to the organization, Ashley’s passion for the financial services industry runs deep, with roots stretching back to 2014 when a college friend introduced her to the field. From the beginning, it was clear to her that this career path held something truly meaningful—the ability to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

We are excited to spotlight Aamir Chalisa, General Manager at Futurity First, an industry leader who has spent over 35 years transforming lives through his work in insurance. His journey is one of perseverance, passion, and a deep commitment to helping others achieve financial security.

Aamir’s path in the insurance industry began shortly after he graduated with an MBA in 1990 from Southern Illinois University. At the time, job opportunities were limited, and as an international student without sponsorship, he faced even more challenges. But a chance encounter with a mentor, an individual from Pakistan, led him to explore the world of sales. "My mentor introduced me to the insurance industry, and I made the bold decision to dive in as an insurance salesman," Aamir recalls.

Brittney S. Neal's journey into the financial services industry was shaped by family ties, personal experiences, and a deep desire to help others build secure financial futures. A new member of NAIFA, Brittney currently serves as a Client Concierge and Advisor at Wellington Capital Reserve, LLC, based in Greenville, South Carolina. Through her work, she guides clients on how to use privatized banking strategies to create generational wealth and financial freedom.

Ray Smith has been a loyal member of NAIFA since 1976, calling Stillwater, OK, home. He is the founder of Ray Smith Wealth Management and has built a career in the financial services industry that spans over five decades. Ray's journey into the business started right after college when a fraternity brother suggested he explore the field. After taking the required tests, he joined a company that later transitioned into Ameritas, where he has stayed ever since. Despite the shifting industry landscape, Ray's dedication to his clients and his work has remained constant.

As we conclude another impactful Life Insurance Awareness Month (LIAM), I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible efforts of our NAIFA members, corporate partners, and the broader financial services community. Together, we’ve made significant strides in educating and empowering individuals and families across the nation about the importance of life insurance and its critical role in securing financial futures.

The award recognizes NAIFA members who achieve extraordinary professional success before age 40 and will be awarded at the combined Apex and National Leadership Conference in September 2024.

The current 2024 issue of Advisor Today magazine is now available as a digital edition. All NAIFA members receive the printed edition of Advisor Today as an exclusive member benefit and we make the digital edition available after the print issue release. If you are not a NAIFA member, join us today!