PIA National Names Timothy G. Russell 2010 Professional Insurance Agent of the Year

WASHINGTON, March 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Timothy G. Russell of Sandy Hook, Connecticut has been named the 2010 Professional Agent of the Year by the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA). The award was presented March 20.

Russell was honored for his contributions to the insurance industry, the independent agency system and to his PIA colleagues, along with his commitment to education, involvement in community affairs and overall success. The award was presented by PIA National President Jon D. Spalding during a luncheon ceremony held in conjunction with the association's spring Board of Directors meeting and Federal Legislative Summit.

"Presenting this award is a pleasure, because it recognizes the outstanding achievements of one Professional Insurance Agent," said Spalding. "It is truly our association's highest honor. PIA needs leaders like Tim Russell to ensure that our next generations of professional insurance agents are successful."

Tim Russell and his brother and business partner George are third-generation owners of the independent Russell Agency of Southport Connecticut, founded by their great-uncle in 1941. He currently serves as Vice President of PIA of Connecticut and has served as Treasurer, in addition to serving on various PIA committees and task forces.

In March 2009, Russell received PIA of Connecticut's Professional Agent of the Year award, recognized for his contributions and commitment to the insurance industry, including his fellow agents. Active in his community, Russell received the Paul Harris Fellow award for Community Service from the Fairfield, Connecticut Rotary Club. He is a past president of the Fairfield Rotary Club and has served in a variety of board positions on the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce.

"As a third-generation Agency owner, Tim exemplifies the characteristics that make the independent agency system strong: honesty in his dealings, fairness in competition and a commitment to the industry," said Connecticut Insurance Commissioner Thomas R. Sullivan, in a letter endorsing his nomination for the national award.

Founded in 1931, PIA is a national trade association that represents member insurance agents and their employees who sell and service all kinds of insurance, but specialize in coverage of automobiles, homes and businesses. PIA members are Local Agents Serving Main Street America ^SM. PIA's web address is www.pianet.com.

This press release online at: http://www.pianet.com/NewsCenter/PressReleases/03-23-10.htm http://www.pianet.com/NewsCenter/PressReleases/2-1-08.htm

SOURCE National Association of Professional Insurance Agents