Celebrating 35 Years of Community and Connection in Insurance: CIWA's Legacy

Celebrating 35 Years of CIWA

The California Insurance Wholesalers Association (CIWA) is proudly commemorating its 35th anniversary in 2026, an impressive milestone that marks over three decades of creating essential relationships and supporting professional growth within California’s wholesale insurance sector. Established in response to significant legislation and industry changes in the late 1980s, CIWA has successfully evolved to meet the needs of its members and the dynamic insurance landscape.

A Foundation Built on Vision

Founded amidst the turbulent political backdrop of California’s Proposition 103, CIWA was formally set up in 1991 by influential figures like Marv Uritz, Norm Levine, and Dave Anderson. These early leaders recognized a critical gap in representation and support for managing general agents (MGAs) and wholesale intermediaries. By forming CIWA, they created a specialized forum for engagement with California’s ever-evolving regulatory environment, thus fostering an ecosystem ripe for collaboration and growth.

Over its 35-year history, CIWA has maintained its steadfast commitment to two core missions: facilitating genuine networking opportunities and addressing the practical requirements of wholesale professionals through education and legislative action. This dual focus has proven crucial as the insurance industry continues to evolve.

Celebrating Leadership and Commitment

The success of CIWA over the years can be attributed to the dedicated service of numerous past presidents and board members. More than 25 past presidents and 85 board members have invested countless hours in advancing the association’s mission. Their enduring commitment has laid the groundwork for the robust community of wholesale insurance professionals we see today.

As Yana Connors, current President of CIWA, states, “What makes CIWA special after 35 years is the quality of connections our members make. We focus on creating an environment where California's wholesale insurance professionals can build real relationships and learn from each other.” This dedication to personal connections has been the lifeblood of CIWA since its inception and remains fundamental to its mission.

A Thriving Membership

Today, CIWA boasts a record membership, reflecting both the increasing value of the association and the growing surplus lines market. Reports suggest that in the year following CIWA surpassing the $100 billion mark in direct premiums, the surplus lines market soared to nearly $130 billion in 2024, indicating a flourishing future for CIWA and its members within this vital segment of the insurance industry.

In recent years, CIWA has adapted its programming to align with the changing needs of its members. Initiatives such as CIWA Future, dedicated to supporting the next generation of insurance professionals; CIWA Women, which focuses on empowering women in the wholesale sector; and the Insurtech Committee, aimed at fostering discussions about technological advancements, have been developed to keep pace with industry evolution and member interests. These programs complement CIWA's flagship events, which offer unparalleled networking opportunities.

Looking Forward

As CIWA reaches this significant milestone, it remains focused on its core purpose: uniting California’s wholesale insurance community. In celebration of its 35th anniversary, CIWA invites members and industry partners to participate in this exciting journey at the Summer Forum, scheduled for July 19-21, 2026, in beautiful Monterey, California.

For further details about CIWA and its upcoming Summer Forum, please visit the official CIWA website. Together, let’s continue to build a vibrant and supportive insurance community for years to come!

About CIWA

The California Insurance Wholesalers Association, Inc. is a nonprofit organization under 501(c)(6), dedicated to enhancing the education and advocacy of wholesale insurance professionals and their affiliate business partners. Tax ID 95-4369749.