One of the most satisfying experiences of my 25-year career at National Underwriter has been running our annual "Commercial Insurance Agency Of The Year" award program. Our past winners, as well as those agencies receiving Honorable Mentions, have all been outstanding role models for their peers to follow.

It's been my pleasure to spotlight their innovative approaches, especially since they've all been so generous in sharing their "secrets" with colleagues nationwide–in print, on the phone and in person. The principals representing these winners are all class individuals, grateful for the opportunity to talk about what makes them unique and successful in a very competitive market.

o "NU's recognition of our company's achievements has been like winning the Heisman Trophy for insurance agencies," said Steven Schill, chief operating officer of last year's winner, Haake Companies of Overland Park, Kan. "My phone has been ringing off the hook from other companies wanting information on how we did it, why, and whether it really works."