125 Years Supporting Independent Insurance Agents in Illinois
We're celebrating all year!
Check out the information on the Special Anniversary Publication we'll be publishing in October - click here.
Association Timeline
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
March of the Acronyms
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
Honoring Their Legacy Through Scholarships
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
Celebrating Association Trailblazers
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
History of Advocacy
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
History of Community Involvement
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
History of Community Involvement - Agencies
According to a 202 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
Evolution of the Board Structure
Since 1899, the state association's board structure has undergone several changes to keep pace with changing membership demographics.
July 2024
Special Anniversary Publication
2024 marks the quasquicentennial (125th) anniversary of the Illinois state association, which formed in 1899 as Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois and is now known as Big I Illinois. Our rich history is one of adaptation, resilience, strength, community service and entrepreneurial optimism. We invite you to be part of the celebration.
Each month, Insight magazine is featuring a special anniversary section. Those will be compiled into a “Special Anniversary Publication” for distribution in October. Also in this publication, we will feature historical photos, documents and more from throughout our 125 year history.
This publication will be inserted into the October 2024 issue of Insight, emailed to e-Insight subscribers, distributed at CONVO, posted on the association website, and more.
