Dr. Sharon Emek, Ph.D., chairperson of the 125-year-old Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York, Inc., earned the Sidney O. Smith Award for her active advocacy on agents behalf. Emek received the honor on April 25 at the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of Americas 2007 Big I National Legislative Conference and Convention in Washington, D.C.

Emek, director of Manhattans CBS Coverage Group, has testified before Congress on the extension of the Terrorism Risk Insurance Extension Act, due to expire on December 31. Here at home, Emek has kept up a dialogue with New York State Governor Eliot Spitzer, his staff, and the New York State Insurance Department.

Thirty Years Strong

When George Bundt joined Zurich in 1977, he probably could not foresee his progress. Over 30 years, he has held several senior-level management positions. Currently, he serves as senior vice president and director of business development for the accident and health group of Zurich. Bundt has held a variety of management and executive positions in underwriting, claims, sales, and administration in the disability, accident, and medical stop loss arenas. He was named an assistant vice president in 1987, a vice president in 1989, and a senior vice president in 1993. Bundt began his insurance career with Zurich in the late 70s designing their New York DBL (Disability Benefits Law) operation and growing it to the largest in the industry. He received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Gordon College. He is also a Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), a member of the Society of Financial Service Professionals, and a fellow of the Life Management Institute (FMLI). A native of the Bronx, N.Y., He now resides with his wife, two children, and five grandchildren in East Northport, N.Y. and is going strong. Congratulations on your career " 30 years-to date!