Provided by Phil Lackman, this timeline begins in 1849 when the Chicago Board of Underwriters (CBU) was organized. Take a look back at all the significant dates in our history.

January 2024

In the fall of 2011, Jennifer Jacobs, Big I Illinois HR Director, worked closely with Jack Payan, past president, as he wrote "March of the Acronyms - The Rise of Independent Insurance Agents in Illinois."

January 2024

Over the years, Big I Illinois has honored the legacy of those who served this industry with several scholarships to assist individuals interested in a career in the industry and those currently working in the industry looking to enhance their knowledge through a designation program.

February 2024

As we commemorate 125 years of our association’s rich history, we are honored to shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of our Association Trailblazers. From the first Black president to the inspiring strides made by female leaders and our youngest president, these trailblazers serve as a reminder of the significance of representation and diversity in leadership.

March 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of Illinois politics, Big I Illinois has played a critical role in advocating for the independent insurance agent since our inception in 1899. In this series, we've reached out to past Big I Illinois Government Relations Committee Chairs to hear from them on the hot topics, challenges and triumphs the state association has experienced.

April 2024

Just like independent agents all over the state, big I Illinois has always been deeply committed to giving back to the communities we serve. Beyond offering exceptional products, services and resources for 125 years, the state association has supported the community in many ways. In this series, we revisit our legacy of involvement.

May 2024

According to a 2022 report by McKinsey & Company, the average charitable giving from the entire insurance industry in the US is estimated to be around $560 million to $600 million annually. In this feature, we highlight several agencies and their community involvement.

June 2024

Since 1899, the state association's board structure has undergone several changes to keep pace with changing membership demographics.

July 2024

Planning a successful convention is no easy feat. From juggling ideal venues and captivating speakers to navigating the unprecedented challenges of a virtual event during a pandemic, Sandy Cuffle and Shannon Churchill have been the driving force behind the association's biggest event since 1996. In this issue, we hear from them on what have been challenges, and what's been the most rewarding.

August 2024

From its humble beginnings as a volunteer-run association operating out of an insurance agency to an association guided by volunteers and staffed by professionals in its headquarters office, the association has undoubtedly seen many changes in the last 125 years. But if there has been one constant, it is that talented and dedicated people have cared enough about the industry and its cause to fight for fair and sound legislative proposals, preserve professionalism in the business, provide a competitive advantage for association members, and preserve the legacy of this organization

September 2024