Amidst the hardship brought on by the COVID-19 virus, insurance agents have had to shift business priorities to continue serving clients as brick-and-mortar offices closed and operations moved to the digital space. Not only did agents have to adapt to a new business setting, but they also had to advise clients on never-before-discussed topics such as business interruption coverage for virus 'physical damage' and policy changes in response to economic distress. As Benjamin Franklin is quoted to have said, "out of adversity comes opportunity," a select group of agents showcases just how that can be possible. Travelers recently announced its 2020 Personal Insurance Agents of the Year, recognizing the recipients for their outstanding customer service, delivery of long-term profitable growth and commitment to Travelers during a challenging time. "We are proud to acknowledge this exceptional group of agents who regularly go above and beyond to deliver high levels of service to our personal insurance lines customers," Michael Klein, executive vice president and president of personal insurance at Travelers, said in a statement. "Our independent agents are trusted advisors in their communities, providing guidance and peace of mind — especially during times of uncertainty. We applaud their success and are grateful for their continued partnership." The 2020 Agents of the Year include:

• James Clabo, The Simmons Partner Network, Hermiston, Oregon.
• Tony D'Errico, Mercer Health & Benefits, LLC, Boston, Massachusetts.
• Bruce Humphrey, HomeServices Insurance, St. Paul, Minnesota.
• Jeffrey Mongeon, DealerPolicy, Williston, Vermont.
• Drew Monroe, Prosper Insurance Group , Virginia Beach, Virginia.
• Greg Padovani, NFP Canada, Ancaster, Ontario.
• Henry Powers, Valley Insurance Agency Alliance, LLC, St. Louis, Missouri.
• Tom Schwarz, Military United Insurance, Columbia, Missouri.
• Ben Taylor, Assure Alliance, Inc., Spartanburg, South Carolina.
• Alan Wong, Stanley Wong Insurance Agency, San Diego, California.
• Matthew Wood, MetzWood Insurance, Chatham, New York.

PropertyCasualty360 asked eight of this year's award recipients to share how they've overcome a few of the challenges brought on by the coronavirus pandemic as well as the hurdles presented by emerging technologies. Click through the slideshow above to read their responses. Related: |

• Survey: Concerns insurance agents must address amidst COVID-19
• Four reasons why 'modern' agencies were better prepared for COVID-19
• How insurance agents are helping clients through the pandemic