Even though I have been in the industry since 1988, I joined NAIFA in 2003. It wasn't long before I saw the value of NAIFA and wished I had joined earlier in my career. The members who I continue to have the privilege of associating with, I believe, are consummate professionals who operate with the highest of ethical standards. It wasn't long before I saw the value of NAIFA and wished I had joined earlier in my career.

Langdon Ford Financial partners John Langdon and Marc Del Gaudio were presented with GAMA International's James H. Krueger First in Class Award for outstanding leadership and production. GAMA also presented North Star Resource Group’s vice president and field director Mark Bonnett with its Brian Early Front Line Excellence Award for outstanding leadership.

Two NAIFA members are among the recipients of the 2012 National Long Term Care Insurance Sales Achievement Awards, which were announced this month by the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance (AALTCI).

NAIFA member Gary T. “Doc” Huffman, CLU, ChFC, was recently elected to the position of chairman of the Board of Ohio National Boards of Directors. This is in addition to his current titles of president and CEO.

American General Life Companies has named NAIFA member John Deremo executive vice president and chief distribution officer. He joins American General from Protective Life Corporation, where he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Distribution Officer.

NAIFA-California has announced that Larry R. Lee, CLU, ChFC, is the recipient of the 21st annual NAIFA-California Distinguished Service Award. The honor is bestowed on individuals who have demonstrated meritorious service to the insurance and financial-services industry, and the community in ways that enhance the image of the agent/advisor. Lee will receive the award May 22, 2012, at the NAIFA-California Annual Meeting in Monterey, California.

Since he won the Four Under Forty Award three years ago, Adam Solano has been a busy man. He has spoken at industry gatherings, acquired a couple of agencies, and improved the operational efficiency of his firm to enhance his clients’ experiences. Here are his thoughts on what it takes to move ahead.

We are a national IMO insurance agency that has been in existence for over 40 years, and represent 35 to 40 insurance companies. Our practice includes fixed insurance products and securities products offered through our national broker/dealer. We work with more than 500 representatives around the country.

The life insurance industry’s highest honor will be presented at the NAIFA Career Conference and Annual Meeting in September as a tribute to his more than 40 years of service and contributions to the industry.

New York Life has announced the appointment of Vice President Joanne Rodgers as Chief Diversity Officer, responsible for overseeing all aspects of New York Life’s diversity program. Rodgers is a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors.