Honoring individuals whose extraordinary service and tremendous contributions represent the legacy of the most accomplished, impactful, and inspirational members of the NAIFA family.
The NAIFA Board of Trustees authorized the creation of the NAIFA Hall of Fame to honor extraordinary NAIFA members from throughout the association's history. NAIFA members and other interested parties may nominate current NAIFA members or past members who have retired or those who have passed away. The Hall of Fame Selection Committee evaluates the nominations and selects up to five inductees each year.
Inductees of the NAIFA Hall of Fame are selected based on the Committee’s assessment of the following criteria:
John A. Davidson LUTCF FSS (Committee Chair)
Tom Cottron, LUTCF, FSCP
John M. Ruckel, LUTCF
C. Robert Brown, Sr., CLU, LUTCF
Thomas O. Michel, LACP, CLTC
Kevin Mayeux, CAE (NAIFA CEO – Nonvoting member)
PhD, CLU, CPCU†
Contributions to the Journal of Financial Service Professionals and the Insurance Industry
Kenneth Black, Jr., PhD, CLU, CPCU, one of the most accomplished members of the Society of Financial Service Professionals, is considered by many to have been one of the most influential voices of his generation in insurance.
In 1953, he began his professional academic career at Georgia State University and went on to build one of the industry’s most highly regarded programs in risk management, insurance, and actuarial science. He served as the college’s dean from 1969 to 1984.
A 49-year member of the Society of Financial Service Professionals, he served as editor of the Journal of Financial Service Professionals and its earlier incarnations, from 1959 to 2001. He is credited with bringing the Journal to prominence over his 41-year editorship, serving a readership who looked to the Journal for quality education in financial service issues and practice specialties. In recognition of his many contributions, the Society instituted the Kenneth Black Jr. Authors Award, which recognizes top articles published in the Journal of Financial Service Professionals, as well as the Kenneth Black Jr. Leadership Award which honors members of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors who epitomize FSP’s core values of relationships, education, and ethics.
In 1959, the same year he became editor of the Journal, Dr. Black served as regional vice president for the Society of Chartered Property and Casualty Underwriters; founded Educational Foundation, Inc., to facilitate industry funding to support Georgia State University’s insurance program; and was named Regents’ Professor of Insurance at Georgia State.
Dr. Black’s contributions to the education of consumers and insurance professionals encompassed writing or co-authoring 16 books, including the seminal textbook Life Insurance, co-authored with Dr. Solomon S. Huebner and later Dr. Harold D. Skipper. The 1,000-page textbook, an industry standard, has been translated into Japanese and Spanish and two dialects of Chinese.
He became president and chief executive office of the International Insurance Society from 1988 to 1992. The industry established the Kenneth Black Jr. Chair in Insurance to recognize his pioneering role in insurance education and professionalism.
Additional honors included the S. S. Huebner Gold Medal of The American College, the John Newton Russell Memorial Award, and the Distinguished Service Award of the Life Insurers conference. He was named to the Insurance Hall of Fame in 1993.
A graduate of the University of North Carolina, he played professional baseball in the Piedmont League for the Portsmouth Cubs prior to attaining his degree. Dr. Black earned his PhD at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he was a Fellow of the Solomon S. Huebner Foundation for Insurance Education.
Dr. Black passed away on March 7, 2005, at the age of 80.
NAIFA leader with lifetime commitment to women and children was instrumental in WIFS
Rosalie L. Kuntz, a trailblazer in both the insurance industry and her local community, has left an indelible mark through her extensive contributions to the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) and her dedicated community service in Pasadena, Texas.
Kuntz's notable involvement with NAIFA began in the late 1970s, during a pivotal moment for the organization. At the 1979 convention in Detroit, delegates approved the formation of the Women Life Underwriters Conference (WLUC) of the National Association of Life Underwriters (NALU), aimed at focusing on agent education, training, and motivation without production requirements. Rosalie Kuntz was appointed as the Conference’s treasurer, working alongside the inaugural president, Grace L. Thornburg. This new conference sought to address the unique challenges faced by women life underwriters and to balance career and family responsibilities through regional seminars and a dedicated newsletter.
Rosalie's contributions to NAIFA extended beyond her role in the WLUC. She served as NAIFA-Texas President from 1984 to 1985 and was honored with the NAIFA-Texas Lifetime Achievement Award during her presidency. Her commitment to advancing the profession and supporting her peers was further recognized when she was named WIFS Woman of the Year in 2001.
Beyond her professional achievements, Rosalie Kuntz is deeply committed to her community. As a co-owner of Kuntz Insurance Agency, she has leveraged her success to benefit Pasadena through various initiatives. Kuntz has actively participated in community endeavors aimed at enriching the lives of local youth. She is a dedicated volunteer at Career Day events, where she shares her experiences and insights with students. Her commitment to education is further demonstrated by her service as a mentor to students struggling with reading difficulties.
Rosalie’s influence extends to her leadership roles in the community. She made history as the first woman elected president of the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce, reflecting her dedication to the local business community. Her contributions were further recognized when she was awarded the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year.
Kuntz’s involvement with the Pasadena Independent School District (ISD) includes serving on the Advisory Committee and participating in the HOSTS mentoring program. Her efforts to support and guide local students underscore her lifelong commitment to both her profession and her community.
Rosalie L. Kuntz’s legacy is marked by her exceptional leadership within NAIFA, her pioneering role in supporting women in the insurance industry, and her unwavering dedication to fostering the growth and success of the Pasadena community.
CLU
For a lifetime of meritorious service to NAIFA and the insurance and financial services profession. A NAIFA Past President, John Newton Russell Memorial Award recipient, and creator of NAIFA's Leadership in Life Institute (LILI), Larry M. Lambert has left an enduring legacy of leadership, advocacy, and service.
Larry M. Lambert is one of the insurance and financial services profession's most accomplished leaders, whose career spans more than six decades of service as a life insurance professional, financial advisor, industry advocate, and association leader. Throughout his distinguished career, Larry has exemplified sustained and meritorious service to his clients, colleagues, community, and profession, earning widespread respect for his integrity, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing the insurance and financial services industry.
Larry entered the life insurance profession in 1965 with Penn Mutual Life in Wichita, Kansas. After serving in management as a District Manager and Associate General Agent, he returned to personal production and, in 1980, founded The LBL Group with his wife and business partner, Debra Thomas Lambert. Today, LBL Insurance Services continues to provide sophisticated planning in estate planning, wealth accumulation, retirement planning, business continuity planning, life and disability income insurance, employee benefits, and asset management. Throughout his career, Larry has remained dedicated to delivering exceptional service while helping generations of families and business owners achieve financial security.
A Life and Qualifying Member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), Larry has qualified for Court of the Table and currently qualifies for Top of the Table. His consistent production excellence has earned numerous industry honors recognizing outstanding sales achievement, client service, and policy persistency. Equally successful as a manager, Larry served in agency leadership from 1968 through 1979, earning multiple management awards while leading his organization to its prestigious Agency of the Year Award in 1974. His reputation for excellence has made him one of the profession's most respected practitioners and mentors.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Larry's greatest legacy is his extraordinary leadership and volunteer service through NAIFA. A member for more than 40 years, he has served the association at every level, including as National President (1998–1999), National Secretary, member of the National Board of Trustees, President of NAIFA-California, President of NAIFA-Long Beach, and longtime member of the NAIFA-California Board of Trustees. He also served six years as NAIFA-California's National Committeeman and contributed to countless committees, task forces, and strategic initiatives that helped shape the future of the association.
Larry's impact on NAIFA extends well beyond elected office. During his presidency, his commitment to developing future leaders resulted in the creation of the Leadership in Life Institute (LILI), one of NAIFA's most successful and enduring leadership development programs. He has remained actively involved with LILI as California Chair, lead moderator, and member of the national LILI Subcommittee. Larry also served on every national strategic planning initiative beginning in 1995, participated in the "NAIFA in the 21st Century" task force, and served on the NAIFA CEO Search Task Force. His vision and leadership have influenced generations of volunteer leaders and strengthened the association for decades.
A steadfast advocate for the profession, Larry has consistently championed legislative and political engagement on behalf of insurance and financial professionals. He is an active member of the Association for Advanced Life Underwriting (AALU), serving as a member of its prestigious Legislative Circle, and has been a longtime Emissary-level supporter of IFAPAC. His advocacy has helped protect consumers while preserving the ability of professional advisors to provide trusted financial guidance.
Larry is also one of the profession's most respected educators. A highly sought-after speaker at insurance and financial services conferences nationwide, he has shared his expertise on leadership, management, motivation, sales, financial planning, employee benefits, and association leadership. His ability to educate, inspire, and mentor others has positively influenced thousands of insurance and financial professionals throughout the country.
Equally committed to serving his community, Larry has devoted decades to civic and charitable leadership. He has served in leadership positions with Memorial Health Services, Miller Children's Hospital, Goodwill Industries of Southern Los Angeles County, the Long Beach Rotary Club, and the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce. He currently serves on the boards of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles Trust and Estate Programs, Memorial Health Services, and the MDRT Foundation. In recognition of a decade of extraordinary service supporting children's cancer research, Larry and his wife, Debbie, were honored with the Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Center Award.
Larry's extraordinary contributions have earned the profession's highest recognition. In 2008, he was named the recipient of NAIFA's John Newton Russell Memorial Award, the insurance industry's highest individual honor, recognizing sustained and meritorious service to the life insurance and financial services profession. Throughout more than sixty years of leadership, volunteer service, advocacy, mentorship, and professional excellence, Larry M. Lambert has helped shape both NAIFA and the insurance profession. His lasting legacy continues to inspire future generations of advisors and association leaders, making him exceptionally deserving of the profession's highest honors.
Prolonged service to NAIFA
Bruce Murray, a revered figure in the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) Great Southwest (GSW) and a dedicated advocate for grassroots political involvement, left a profound legacy through his extensive service and leadership.
A longtime member of NAIFA Great Southwest, Bruce Murray's impact on the organization was substantial. He served as President of NAIFA GSW on two separate occasions, showcasing his exceptional leadership and commitment to the association. Murray's influence extended beyond local leadership, as he held the position of National Committeeman for over 20 years, reflecting his long-standing dedication and active participation at the national level.
Murray’s contributions were not confined to his roles within NAIFA GSW. He actively engaged in various state and NAIFA committees, where his efforts were instrumental in shaping key initiatives and advancing the organization’s goals. Known for his political activism and consistent membership recruitment, Murray leveraged his broad network of insurance connections to support and promote NAIFA GSW generously.
One of his notable contributions was the development and presentation of the “See How They Run” program, which he co-led with his longtime friend Don Ladewig. This program served as a practical guide for grassroots political involvement and was an important adjunct to the Texas Minute Man program, often cited as a precursor to NAIFA’s APIC (Agent Political Involvement Committee).
In the later stages of his career, Bruce Murray also served on the NAIFA Texas board, further reflecting his dedication to the association and his commitment to its mission.
Bruce Murray is the namesake of the Tall Texan Award by NAIFA Great Southwest, a testament to his outstanding contributions to the association. He retired from Prudential Insurance Company after a distinguished 33-year career and was an active member of several organizations, including the Arlington Jaycees, LUPAC, TAIFA, NAIFA, and Santa U.S.A.
Bruce Murray passed away on December 31, 2001, at the age of 64, in Arlington. Bruce Murray's legacy is marked by his exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and significant contributions to both NAIFA and his community. His work has left a lasting impact on those who knew him and on the organizations he served.
Peter C. Browne, LUTCF, was a NAIFA member for nearly 40 years. He was the President of NAIFA’s New York City and New York state chapters. He served on the NAIFA Board of Trustees for three years and then served as national Treasurer for seven years. Browne served on the Life Underwriting Training Council Board of Trustees for two years and The American College Board from 2001-2010. He was also a member of the Life Happens Board of Directors. He was the 2015 recipient of the John Newton Russell Memorial Award.
Ben Feldman developed a distinctive approach to selling life insurance that led to his own extraordinary success and created a path to success for countless other agents and advisors. During his career of more than 50 years at New York Life he set records for the highest annual sales ($100,000,000), daily sales ($20,000,000), and was one of the top earners, with annual commissions surpassing $1,000,000 in the later years of his career. He dedicated himself to mentoring a new generation of agents. Feldman was the 1984 recipient of the John Newton Russell Memorial Award.
Terry K. Headley, LUTCF, FSS, LIC, was a tireless political advocate on behalf of NAIFA and the industry and a selfless supporter of NAIFA’s political action committee. NAIFA’s Terry Headley Lifetime Defender Award, recognizing an outstanding member for their political action and grassroots work, is named in his honor. Headley served as President of NAIFA-Omaha and NAIFA-Nebraska. He was NAIFA’s national President during the 2010-2011 term and his efforts were crucial in the defeat of the DOL’s fiduciary rule proposal, protecting the interests of advisors and their clients. He also served as a member of the Life Happens Board of Directors. Headley received the John Newton Russell Memorial Award in 2020.
Robert M. Nelson, CLU, LUTCF, FSS, has been a NAIFA member for 52 years. Beginning in 1993, he chaired an agent’s national task force to reform sales illustrations and testified 13 times at regulatory meetings and in front of the U.S. Senate, resulting in all 50 states adopting the task force’s major recommendations. As NAIFA’s national President for 2001-2002, he presided over a national CEO search. Nelson is an accomplished speaker on agent productivity and has developed a “20-point day” system that he has presented to tens of thousands of agents.
Lester A. Rosen was NAIFA President for the 1973-1974 term. As President, he engaged in extensive international outreach, helping establish life insurance associations in Jamaica, the Bahamas, Europe, Japan, and Singapore. He was the driving force behind a NAIFA financial literacy and public education effort that funded the “You Owe It to Yourself” television series on PBS, which informed the public on financial management and life insurance. He was a strong advocate for high agent-licensing standards. In 1975, Rosen received the John Newton Russell Memorial Award.
CLU, LUTCF
C. Robert Brown, Sr., CLU, LUTCF, has been a member of NAIFA for over 50 years. He has served in many state and local leadership positions including President, and as both Trustee and President for NAIFA National. In addition to his leadership roles, Brown has faithfully served on many committees including Membership where he was Chair, on strategic planning task forces and most recently on the Government Relations Committee. He has been a member of the NAIFA Congressional Council since its inception and is a loyal and generous donor to the PAC.
At MDRT, Brown has been a Life and Qualifying member since 1980 and was Court of the Table from 2005-2013 and from 2016-2018.
Brown also has been engaged with the LIFE Foundation for Education and served on their board from 2006-2008.
Brown has been active with Ameritas where he served three, three-year terms in the Ameritas Advisory Cabinet, including holding the position of Chairman in 1999.
As a testament to the quality and generosity of his service, Brown has been honored by many of the organizations he has worked with. He was inducted into the NAIFA-Memphis Hall of Fame in 1999; the Union Central Life Insurance Company Hall of Fame in 2000; was named NAIFA-Tennessee Professional of the Year in 2000; was the recipient of the Lester A. Rosen Humanitarian and Achievement Award in 2006; and was inducted into the Tennessee Insurance Hall of Fame at Middle Tennessee State University in 2013. In recognition of Brown’s commitment to high school athletics, he was inducted into the Tennessee Athletic Administrators Hall of Fame in 1994.
Brown served as Chairman of the Board of Generations, Inc. from 2012-2014, a non-profit, social services agency headquartered in Memphis. Generations provides its constituents assistance in the areas of specialized medical foster care, home health/homemaker services, elder care, and employment programs for senior citizens.
Prior to serving on the Generations, Inc. Board of Directors, Brown served on the Meritan, Inc. Board of Directors from 2006 through 2010. Meritan is a nonprofit organization that provides social services throughout three states.
Brown has also served as Chairman of the Mayors Youth Guidance Commission in 1981, Finance Chair and Building Committee Member of his church, President of the St. Benedict Athletic Booster Club from 1993-1994, Advisory Board Member for St. Benedict Catholic High School and Chair of their Gala, and Committee Chair of the Diocesan Annual Appeal
Chief Executive Officer
Norman Levine's unparalleled contributions to the life insurance and financial services industry over more than six decades left an indelible mark on the profession and continue to inspire generations of industry professionals.
Norman G. Levine passed away on November 20, 2015, at the age of 89. A trailblazer in the life insurance industry, Norman's leadership was transformative, having served as President of NAIFA, GAMA, and LUTC. Norman’s influence extended to MDRT where he held a national officer role, and he was honored with the prestigious 1986 John Newton Russell Memorial Award and induction into the GAMA Hall of Fame.
Norman was a renowned author of nine professional books and a world-class speaker. His impactful motivational talks reached over half a million individuals across 50 states and 32 countries. Norman’s ability to engage and inspire audiences from small groups to large conventions was unmatched, earning him invitations to the White House from two U.S. Presidents. His speeches and writings provided invaluable insights and strategies, shaping the careers of thousands and elevating the standards of the industry.
Norman’s dedication to the life insurance profession was evident in his tireless advocacy and visionary leadership. He worked diligently to advance the industry’s interests, confronting challenges such as the encroachment of banks into the insurance field and advocating for higher educational standards for agents. Norman’s leadership during a critical time for the industry demonstrated his commitment to both professional excellence and public service.
Norman’s personal life was as remarkable as his professional achievements. He was a proud alumnus of the University of Wisconsin and a devoted family man. His legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments to the enduring love and support he provided to his family.
Norman’s contributions to NAIFA, GAMA, MDRT, and the American College have cemented his status as an industry icon. His “Levine Formula” for success, focusing on presentations, knowledge, skills, and relationships, has been a cornerstone for countless professionals striving for excellence. His ability to create “Winning Relationships” and provide actionable strategies has been instrumental in helping individuals and organizations achieve their goals.
Norman’s legacy of excellence, innovation, and leadership is a guiding light for all who aspire to follow in his footsteps.
CLU
Ellen M. Putnam, CLU, stood just 4 feet 11 inches tall yet she loomed large in the insurance world. Described as a “giant among giants,” Putnam's remarkable career and groundbreaking achievements established her as a trailblazer.
Putnam began her illustrious career with National Life Insurance Co. in 1919, shortly after World War I. Over her 70-year tenure, she became a leading national producer and earned a place of honor in the industry. Her steadfast dedication led her to become the first woman to serve as president of a local underwriter’s association, the Rochester Life Underwriters, in 1933. She also made history as the third woman and first Rochesterian elected to the board of trustees of the National Association of Life Underwriters (NALU), the predecessor to NAIFA.
In 1978, Putnam was honored with the John Newton Russell Memorial Award, the highest accolade in the life insurance industry, recognizing her exceptional contributions and leadership. Her achievements extended to being one of the first Chartered Life Underwriters in the country and a key figure in establishing Women in Insurance & Financial Services (WIFS).
A forward-thinking marketer, Putnam authored a pioneering article in 1923 titled “Life Insurance for the Nurse,” published in The American Journal of Nursing and the National Messenger. She advocated for life insurance with living benefits well before the term was commonly used. Her insightful approach emphasized the need for financial protection for those whose earning capacities might decline.
Putnam's influence was not confined to her professional accomplishments. She was deeply involved in community service, serving on the board of directors for the Boys Club of Rochester, as a trustee of the Downtown United Presbyterian Church, and as a board member of the Rochester Area Foundation. She was also a former commander of the Florence Nightingale Post of the American Lodge.
Born in Cassadaga, NY, Putnam graduated from Mechanics Institute in 1915. Her career began as a dietician, and during World War I, she served as an Army nurse in France. Putnam's decision to enter into the insurance industry was driven by her desire to positively impact people’s lives. Despite her professional success, Putnam never married, choosing instead to prioritize her independence and career. Her dedication to her clients was unwavering and she continued to submit applications until shortly before her death at the age of 95. Putnam's legacy is one of exceptional service, innovation, and perseverance. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on the insurance industry, and she remains an enduring inspiration.
Colonel Chauncey Munroe Ransom was born on April 18, 1831, in Alden, New York. He was a towering figure in the history of life insurance, renowned for his instrumental role in the formation of the National Association of Life Underwriters (NALU), the predecessor to NAIFA. A distinguished insurance journalist and publisher, Ransom's visionary leadership and relentless advocacy were pivotal in uniting regional life underwriters' associations into a cohesive national body.
Ransom married Mary Celina Standart in 1852, and together they had three children. His professional and personal life was marked by a commitment to excellence and service, both in his career and his community involvement.
Ransom’s journey in the insurance industry began as the editor of The Standard, a prominent Boston insurance journal. His early efforts were focused on fostering professional unity and elevating the standards of the life insurance profession. Recognizing the need for a unified voice, he played a crucial role in the formation of the Boston Life Underwriters Association. His success in Boston inspired similar efforts in other regions, laying the groundwork for a national organization.
Ransom's most significant contribution came on April 8, 1890, when he, alongside key figures from Boston, New York, and Philadelphia, convened at the Parker House in Boston. This meeting, facilitated by Ransom’s initiative, was a historic moment in the insurance industry. The twelve men present—representing the Boston, New York, and Philadelphia associations—debated and unanimously agreed on the need for a national body to unify the regional associations.
As one of the principal architects of this initiative, Ransom, together with David Holway, William H. Dyer, Charles W. Holden, and others, formed a committee to organize the first national meeting. Their efforts culminated in the establishment of NALU (predecessor to NAIFA), which was a landmark achievement in the professionalization of life insurance.
Colonel Ransom’s influence extended beyond the formation of NALU. His leadership helped shape the early structure and goals of the organization and his role in establishing the association was recognized with the title of honorary member, a distinction that required a constitutional amendment at the first convention.
His impact was further cemented by his pioneering work in insurance journalism and advocacy. Ransom’s dedication to promoting the life insurance profession and fostering professional collaboration left an enduring legacy. His contributions were acknowledged and celebrated by his peers, cementing his status as a foundational figure in the industry.
Colonel Chauncey Munroe Ransom passed away on December 9, 1901, at the age of 70. His legacy endures through the continued success and influence of NAIFA and the countless professionals he inspired.
Ransom’s contributions to the insurance industry set a standard for leadership, vision, and unity, ensuring that his pioneering spirit is remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
Edward A. Woods was a transformative figure in the life insurance industry. His early career began with the Equitable Life Assurance Company in Pittsburgh, where he quickly distinguished himself with his commitment to improving the profession.
In his twenties, Woods made a significant impact during a critical debate on anti-rebate laws at the National Association of Life Underwriters (NALU) meeting (predecessor to NAIFA). His assertive stance highlighted the core issue facing the industry: the need to elevate the character of life insurance agents. Woods famously remarked, "If no scheme can be devised for elevating the character of life insurance men, then the National Association of Life Underwriters had better adjourn," underscoring his belief that the ethical conduct of agents was central to the association's mission.
Woods' leadership was instrumental in founding "The Association of Managers and General Agents" the day after the NALU debate, where he was elected president. His tenure as a leader was marked by a relentless focus on agent education and ethical standards. Alongside his colleagues Clark and Russell, Woods helped steer the association through a period of significant reform and growth. In 1915, Woods became the president of NALU, a role in which he emphasized the importance of professional education. His advocacy for high standards extended to legislative efforts, including influential amendments to a key insurance bill, which were credited to his and Lawrence C. Woods' efforts before President Wilson. Woods’ advocacy on behalf of NALU is credited with establishing the tax-free death benefit afforded to every qualified life insurance policy under the federal income tax laws.
Woods' commitment to education was further demonstrated by his financial support for the publication of "Life Insurance: A Textbook" by Huebner in 1915. Woods personally guaranteed $10,000 for the book, which became a seminal text in the field, widely used and highly regarded for years.
Edward A. Woods' death on November 30, 1927, was a great loss to the industry. His contributions were recognized in an extensive tribute by NALU, acknowledging him as a leader in advancing ethical underwriting standards. The American College of Life Underwriters honored his legacy by naming a school after him and continuing his work in agent education.
Edward A. Woods was a pioneer in life insurance, known for his unwavering dedication to ethical practices, agent education, and legislative reform. His visionary leadership and innovative approaches left an indelible mark, making him one of its most influential figures in the industry.
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