June 17, 1936, marks the day when NAIFA-Wisconsin was born. 88 years of existence and what a storied existence it is.

Originally chartered as the Wisconsin State Association of Life Underwriters, the original people forming the Wisconsin corporation were Alvin Moser & J.N. Patterson of Milwaukee, E.G. MacDonald of Sheboygan, and Robert L. Hesse of Madison.Interestingly, not a lot has changed (other than terms) in the purpose of the corporation.

The business and purpose of such corporation shall be:

• To support and maintain the principle of legal reserve life insurance.
• To advance public knowledge of legal reserve life insurance and its uses.
• To promote the adoption and application of higher standards of ethical conduct in the profession of life underwriting, and the business of life insurance.
• To increase the knowledge of agents concerning legal reserve life insurance, its uses and its sale.
• To promote educational and legislative measures that are conducive to the welfare of the citizens of the community and the state and the institution of life insurance.
• To create and maintain a sound public opinion to promote the interest of life insurance and to encourage and maintain helpful, free and ethical relations among those engaged in life underwriting.

We still do that and more, 88 years later!

In addition to the many wonderful state presidents we have had over the years, NAIFA-Wisconsin has produced five national presidents:

Thos. H. Bowles 1897-1898
Jack Nussbaum 1956-1957
Mike Nicholson, CLU, ChFC 1991-1992
Richard A Koob, CLU, ChFC, AEP 2003-2004
Juli Y McNeely, LUTCF, CFP, CLU 2014-2015

We’ve adapted to the changing times, pivoted when necessary, and provided insights to lawmakers to help them make informed decisions on critical legislation. We’ve educated agents and advisors throughout all stages of their careers, helped build good business models, and championed ethical standards throughout our membership.  Our commitments to our clients run deep, and we have forged many lasting relationships in the communities we serve. Job well done, NAIFA-Wisconsin.

As we celebrate 88 years, let’s tip our hats to the foresight of our predecessors, and raise a toast to our members' continued vision and vitality well into the future!