Networking
Join us for an unforgettable networking experience at our exclusive Sponsor Stroll, where agents and brokers can mix and mingle with sponsors in a relaxed island setting. Stroll through a lively atmosphere, strike up conversations, and build connections while enjoying the warm Hawaiian hospitality.
Begin your 2025 Blue Ribbon Conference experience with an evening of connection and celebration at the Aloha Welcome Reception. Meet new peers, reconnect with old friends, and engage with company representatives—all while soaking in the breathtaking sunset over Hapuna Beach. Set against this stunning backdrop, this lively networking event with delicious hors d’oeuvres is the perfect way to spark new business relationships and set the tone for an unforgettable conference.
Calling all golf enthusiasts! The 2025 Blue Ribbon Conference features two exciting tournaments at the BRAND NEW Mauna Kea Golf Course—the Tuesday Golf Scramble and the Thursday Stroke Play Tournament. Renovated in 2024, the course boasts enhanced fairways, pristine greens, and strategically refined bunkers, elevating play on this legendary course. Consistently ranked among Hawai‘i’s top golf destinations, Mauna Kea now offers an even more exceptional experience, blending world-class golf with breathtaking coastal views. Don’t miss this opportunity to compete, connect, and enjoy the game in paradise!
Step into a vibrant courtyard oasis for our “Shades of the Sea” closing dinner party, where guests are invited to dress in hues inspired by the ocean. Enjoy lively music, lavish buffet, engaging activities, and a night of coastal-inspired celebration under the open sky. Don’t miss this chance to make lasting memories while expanding your professional network in a stunning setting.
Engaging with senior company officials is a cornerstone of the Blue Ribbon Conference experience, offering invaluable networking opportunities throughout the event. Company Sponsors will host an array of exclusive receptions, luncheons, dinners, and off-site gatherings, providing the perfect setting to connect in a more personal and dynamic environment. Many of these events are invitation-only, so be sure to keep an eye out for your exclusive access to these premier networking opportunities.
Education & General Sessions
Phil Hansen, Multimedia Artist and Innovator
After developing a career-ending tremor in his drawing hand, Phil embraced his “shake” both physically and metaphorically by redefining his limitation as an impetus for creativity. Phil not only restored his artistic abilities, he became a much more creative and innovative artist than ever before. Phil’s powerful message of finding creativity within limitations will inspire you to stop looking on the outside, and start looking inside yourself for resources that can transform your challenges into opportunities for success.
Don Shampine, CIC, CRM, Insurance Agent, Business Consultant & Professional Speaker, Michigan Insurance Group
Get ready to ride the wave of excitement as we delve into the fascinating world of AI in the insurance industry! We will embark on an exhilarating journey through AI technology, with a special focus on the powerful tool known as ChatGPT. Buckle up as we take a deep dive into how ChatGPT can supercharge your capabilities as an insurance professional. Get ready to unlock the secrets of AI and revolutionize your approach to insurance like never before!
Gregory Dickerson, Director-Global Reinsurance Team, AM Best
Simon David, Vice Chairman, Gallager Re
Scot Sterenberg, Managing Director, Marsh
Learn from experts at AM Best, Gallagher Re, and Marsh on what is driving the current reinsurance market and what is on the horizon.
Rob Darby, President & CEO, Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies
Andy Doll, President & CEO, Capital Insurance Group
Diane Mitchell, SVP & Field Executive, Liberty Mutual/Safeco Insurance
Vern Steiner, President & CEO, State Compensation Insurance Fund
(Moderator) Andy Paulsen, Branch Manager, Chubb
Hear a panel of insurer Executives describe the unique challenges California insurers are facing, and what they are focused on as 2025 proceeds.
Aaron Brown, Keynote Speaker & Founder, UnderSimplified
Join Aaron Brown as he shares insights on resilience, risk-taking, and humility from his journey as an Army Ranger Sergeant, CIA Officer, and tech entrepreneur. Attendees will learn how perseverance fuels success, how to foster innovation and strong teams, and how to develop courageous, resilient leadership. This session delivers both inspiration and practical strategies for lasting organizational impact.