Matthew Rodermund Memorial Service Award
Mary received the Matthew Rodermund Memorial Service Award for her many years of volunteer experience and contribution to actuarial profession.
Why do you volunteer for the CAS?
Because it’s fun and interesting and educational! I am always impressed at the viewpoints and smarts that other CAS members contribute to resolve issues, and I think that through volunteering I have learned a lot about how to work together to get things done.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
After all these years I love that I can walk into a CAS reception or other event and usually run into a number of people that I know (and like!) It’s a great way to make connections!
Is there one aspect of volunteering that stands out?
I think it’s great that, as a volunteer you get a glimpse of how certain aspects of the CAS (or, depending on the role, all of them!) are carried out. It is a smart organization and getting the inside scoop makes me proud to be a member of it.
What is the thing you are most proud of with regards to volunteering?
Probably chairing committees, or taking on other leadership positions, which isn’t – or wasn’t, anyway – really me. I was pretty much badgered into taking on my first volunteer role as a member of the (then-called) Ratemaking Seminar Committee. I never dreamed at the time that I would one day serve on the CAS Board, or as a VP.
What advice do you have for new CAS members just getting their start in volunteering?
If you’re unsure, start small with one of the CAS’ new microvolunteering opportunities.
Kenneth received the Matthew Rodermund Memorial Service Award for his many years of volunteer experience and contribution to actuarial profession.
Is there one aspect of volunteering that stands out?
You get out of it what you put into it. As I say below, my favorite experience and my best memories were of my years in CAS executive leadership. However those were also the most demanding of me in terms of time as well as travel. The hardest jobs are the ones that bring you the greatest rewards long-term, and that applies to volunteer jobs as well.
Best memory about volunteering?
Both times I went to Quebec City were under the CAS’s auspices. When I was Chair of the Regional Affiliates Committee, I went there to welcome the newest Regional Affiliate, which was primarily French speaking, at one of their meetings. For dinner the whole group went to the “Manor du Spaghetti”. That was where I found out that you can’t judge a book, or a restaurant, by its name – the House of Spaghetti deep in French Quebec had the best Italian food I ever enjoyed!
What is the thing you are most proud of with regards to volunteering?
I am very proud to have been nominated by the CAS and elected by the membership to the CAS Board of Directors (some years ago now). In total I spent 9 years attending CAS Board meetings in various capacities (Secretary, VP, and Board member), and all of my fondest memories of volunteering arise from those years.
What advice do you have for new CAS members just getting their start in volunteering?
I did not volunteer as an ACAS because I thought it more appropriate to focus my efforts on finishing my exams. But for a new FCAS, I suggest you start with something doable (don’t overcommit), and in an area you are interested in. They told me all new Fellows work in Admissions. But I was never interested in writing questions or grading exams when I was a new FCAS, so I looked around for something more appealing to me. I struck on the Board of the regional affiliate CAGNY. This turned out to be a great way for a new Fellow to get exposure locally, meet other actuaries both on the CAGNY Board and at CAGNY meetings, and to get the word “President” (of CAGNY) into my CV only a few years after my Fellowship! As a junior consulting actuary, I was also glad that it was not terribly time consuming. I was always glad I chose that as my first foray into volunteering.
Julia received the Matthew Rodermund Memorial Service Award for her many years of volunteer experience and contribution to actuarial profession.
Why do you volunteer for the CAS?
This was a really hard question! There are so many reasons I volunteer. First, it’s fun! I’ve enjoyed meeting so many people through my CAS work, and it’s not superficial—I’ve gotten to know a lot of folks pretty well over the years, and I always enjoy meeting and working with new members.
Another reason I volunteer is that I’ve learned and/or had the opportunity to practice a lot of skills that have helped me in my real job. I can effectively run a lot of different types of meetings. Having a performance conversation with a volunteer—holding them accountable for what they promised to do—is not that much different from having a performance conversation with an employee. I’ve been able to practice my communication skills—especially my listening skills, which always need work—while serving on various committees where not everyone agrees on a course of action. I’ve led complex projects. When I was on the Board of Directors, I had the opportunity to serve on the board committee that did a CEO search. Going through the exercise of talking about our organization, agreeing on key skills for the new CEO, interviewing candidates and evaluating them as part of a committee—it was a real growth experience for me.
In more recent years, I have noticed that I’m more attracted to roles that are more strategic than execution-oriented. In my early years of volunteering, I worked on committees and working groups with specific deliverables—an exam, or a meeting. Now I’m more interested in working on bigger issues, such as what are the skills that actuaries will need 5 to 10 years from now? What sets us apart from data scientists and other quantitative professions? How do young actuaries develop influencing skills and leadership skills, for the good of the profession? There are lots of big, meaty questions out there to make progress on.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
Working with talented, diverse teams to solve problems. I have worked on CAS issues with folks who live in different parts of the country/world, have different practice areas, and different interests. I’ve learned a lot from them. It’s made me a better actuary and insurance professional.
What is the thing you are most proud of with regards to volunteering?
The lasting changes that I contributed to, that still exist today. Some changes to the exams. Our first (and only, so far) Annual Meeting in Hawaii. Leadership Training. Hiring a CEO.
What advice do you have for new CAS members just getting their start in volunteering?
Talk to other members about their experiences volunteering, and pick something that sounds fun to you. Is there something that’s always annoyed you about the exams or exam materials? Join the exam committee, understand why things are the way they are, and if it still makes sense, fix it! Do you want to practice your leadership skills? Join a committee, embrace the work, and let the current volunteer chair and staff chair know you have an interest in a leadership role. Do you want to make sure you’re meeting other committee members in person? Pick a committee that has at least one in-person meeting every year. Do you feel like you can’t make a big commitment right now? There are many roles that are only 20 hours or less a year, with no in-person commitments.
New Member Award
Ildiko received the New Member Award for her work on the Candidate Advocate Working Group.
Why do you volunteer for the CAS?
I started volunteering after being inspired to do so by my prior colleagues who have been very active with the CAS. From there there was no turning back. I find it rewarding giving back to the actuarial community but to be honest I like it just as much that volunteering gives me the ability to have a say in matters impacting candidates and members and this way influence the organization’s direction.
Is there one aspect of volunteering that stands out?
Volunteering gave me the opportunity to glance behind the scenes and see all the hard work done by volunteers and CAS staff to run an organization of this size smoothly. I had a direct view to see how much much attention is given to feedback received from candidates and members via different channels. I could also see how much work is put into coming up with solutions for concerns raised. Some of these can’t be solved easily or quickly but now I know that staff and volunteers will work tirelessly to find the needed solutions.
Best memory about volunteering?
I started volunteering for the CAS during COVID, so all our interactions for a long time were via email and virtual conference calls. This past fall I got the chance to attend the Annual Meeting to celebrate attaining my FCAS designation. It was so great to finally have the chance there to meet some of my fellow volunteers in person.
What advice do you have for new CAS members just getting their start in volunteering?
First of all I would encourage anyone who is thinking about volunteering but maybe hesitant to take the first step and fill out the Volunteer Interest Participation (VIP) survey and CAS staff will be in touch whenever volunteer opportunities will become available. Took me a bit to realize that I can start volunteering even as a candidate still writing exams and enjoyed every minute of it!
As for anyone just starting to volunteer, my advice is to be open to take on new challenges you might not feel comfortable doing right away and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your volunteer group when needed.
Rafael received the New Member Award for his work with the Brazil Outreach and Data Insurance Series Courses (DISC) Task Force.
Why do you volunteer for the CAS?
It starts with giving back to the profession that has created so many opportunities for me, both on the personal side and in terms of career growth. Beyond that, as volunteers we get to shape the CAS, having input on its strategy and also bringing it to life. For example, the work that I get to do on the Latin America Regional Working Group (LARWG) supports our ambition to expand globally, which is an important strategic initiative that will benefit all of us as CAS members.
Is there one aspect of volunteering that stands out?
I value the fact that the CAS structures volunteering opportunities in a way that enables and empowers most of our members to be able to help out. For example, when I worked on developing the Introduction to Data Analytics DISC, our team had a mix of people who had only a few hours available to help, and others who were able to dedicate time to various stages of the project. Also, volunteers can find opportunities that best align with skills they wish to develop, ranging from soft skills to research on cutting edge topics. That flexibility has helped me adjust the amount and type of volunteering that I have done over the years.
Best memory about volunteering?
In September 2022 I represented the CAS at the Brazilian Actuarial Conference, in São Paulo. It was a unique opportunity to go onstage and speak to approximately 300 attendees about the CAS and The Actuary of the Future, including the role of P&C actuaries in innovative industries, such as autonomous vehicles. As a Brazilian and having started my actuarial career there, I care deeply about the professional development of actuaries in the Latin American region. It was a very rewarding moment to me, and I hope it helped guide local actuaries on their pursuit of a globally recognized actuarial designation with the CAS.
Michael received the New Member Award for his work with University Liaisons, CAS Student Central Summer Program, the Syllabus and Examination Working Group, and the Annual and Spring Meeting Planning Working Groups.
Why do you volunteer for the CAS?
I am very proud of being an actuary and I am very proud of the CAS. Helping spread awareness around the actuarial profession and any contributions that I can make to the CAS, both big and small, helps to raise the profession up for everyone.
What is the thing you are most proud of with regards to volunteering?
I love hearing updates from mentees as they progress through their exams, careers, and life. I hope my excitement lives on in them as they get their credentials and inspires them to continue the cycle of volunteerism!
What advice do you have for new CAS members just getting their start in volunteering?
Don't be shy, ask questions and be an active participant. Your new ideas and processes are how we progress as an organization. The CAS is YOUR society and your volunteerism is how you help craft our profession's future.
Jason received the New Member Award for his work on the Student Programs Task Force and Property Casualty Predictive Analytics Task Force.
Why do you volunteer for the CAS?
Volunteering provides me an opportunity to stay involved with the CAS after exams. It also provides a great opportunity to meet and interact with fellow actuaries (and wonderful CAS staff!) outside of my company.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I enjoy how much I’ve continued to learn about the profession from the people I volunteer with. It seems like every volunteer call I’m picking up knew information I wasn’t aware of previously. Sometimes it’s small “fun facts” but other times it can be pretty interesting and complex. Occasionally there’s even a follow-up e-mail where someone shares a white paper or article for further learning.
What is the thing you are most proud of with regards to volunteering?
I’m most proud of the work the Student Central Committee has done with the Student Summer Program. I think it’s an amazing program with great content, and watching it grow over the past few years has been really exciting.
What advice do you have for new CAS members just getting their start in volunteering?
Approach it with energy and an open mind. Volunteering has a lot to offer, and every experience is a little different. At the end of the day, it’s an opportunity to engage with others in the same profession as you while helping build or maintain one of the organizations that defines that profession.
Above and Beyond Achievement Award
Bob received the Above and Beyond Award for his work on the Investment Council and tenure as Assistant Treasurer.
Why do you volunteer for the CAS?
I love the CAS and want to give back … for many reasons: 1) the CAS helped to open the door to my career as an actuary, a career full of challenge and meaningful rewards, 2) the roles played by actuaries remain of great value to the economy, 3) the CAS continues to grow and seek greater value for the profession, 4) the CAS uses a business model where volunteers are a core of strategic and tactical management.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
Working with top-self professionals, including volunteer colleagues and staff assigned to our committees and volunteer roles. Also, the opportunity to work on valued added tasks; offering time and talent where the organization and profession can gain.
Is there one aspect of volunteering that stands out?
The impact and opportunity of committee/council chairs. With a volunteer centric organization, the CAS provides an outsized chance for the council chairs.
Best memory about volunteering?
Working with staff liaisons – Yaroslava Jordon and Todd Rogers. What a pleasure and synergetic relationships. I have such sincere respect and admiration for YJ and TR.
What is the thing you are most proud of with regards to volunteering?
Expanding the focus and scope of the Investment Council from oversight only to recognizing the tactical opportunities available to enhance the returns on investments and therefore contribute to the financial success and security of the CAS.
What advice do you have for new CAS members just getting their start in volunteering?
Some specific thoughts: 1) be willing to speak up and offer your ideas and thoughts – don’t be reluctant, 2) know that the staff liaisons are in your corner, 3) there are many meaningful and value-added roles for volunteers at the CAS – explore and ask questions of staff and other volunteers about alternatives.
Anything else you want to share?
It is good that the volunteer centric business model for the CAS remains in place. It is also good that the CAS remains on its own as THE professional association representing the Property & Casualty actuaries.
Laura received the Above and Beyond Award for her work on the Candidate Advocate Working Group.
Why do you volunteer for the CAS?
I like being able to give back to the CAS community through volunteering. It’s important to me that the CAS continues to be a member-driven organization, and the only way to accomplish that is via volunteering!
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I really like being able to connect with CAS members from across the US and the world. I work for a small insurance company and volunteering gives me the opportunity to grow my actuarial circle. It’s always fun to see people at CAS meetings and reconnect.
What advice do you have for new CAS members just getting their start in volunteering?
There are so many more opportunities to volunteer with the CAS than you’re probably aware of. Everyone is familiar with the exam committees and grading positions (and those are great opportunities to volunteer for), but there’s a whole host of other working groups! The CAS has done a great job recently with doing bios of each group, so take a read through and find one that interests you. Don’t feel like you can’t contribute until you’ve been a member for a while – hearing new voices is very important to the society.
Regina received the Above and Beyond award for her work with the Organization of Latino Actuaries (OLA).
Why do you volunteer for the CAS?
I have a lot of reasons why I volunteer, but the main reasons are: I try to make the world easier for those who are behind me, and if I don’t do the work, who will? I really want to make life easier for those who are underrepresented in the profession. I can def expand on this question if you need me to. I can ramble for days!
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
Most of my volunteer work has been with the Organization of Latino Actuaries (OLA). I have loved the relationships I’ve built and seeing the success of my students. I love seeing them with letters after their names!!!
Is there one aspect of volunteering that stands out?
Way too hard to pick just one, but I absolutely LOVE getting those “I got an offer” text messages. I know that for them the journey is entering a new chapter, but getting to that part is huge. I’ve also had students tell me that their starting salaries are more than what their parents make. Talk about improving the wealth gap!
Best memory about volunteering?
Years before OLA existed, I had a vision. I wanted to introduce the Association of Latino Professionals For America (ALPFA) to the actuarial profession. ALPFA has an annual convention, and I’ve always wanted to have actuarial representation there. Well, in 2018, my dream was realized! OLA sponsored students to attend the convention. I can also go into more detail about this one if you need me to.
What is the thing you are most proud of with regards to volunteering?
Now, I can’t say that OLA is directly responsible, but the CAS metric for Latine representation has been improving!!! I like to think that we work we have done has made an impact on the CAS membership.
What advice do you have for new CAS members just getting their start in volunteering?
Start small. When I first started volunteering, I was a member of the old JC. I met people and found others who were down to start OLA. I had the capacity, so I was able to put in a lot of work. If you don’t have the time, that’s ok! Even helping out with a resume review and/or mock interview is much appreciated.
Anything else you want to share?
I can talk about diversity work for days. If you want me to elaborate on anything in particular, feel free to let me know. I’ve also been posting a bit about my OLA experience on LinkedIn. You can read those posts to get more detail.
Jeremy received the Above and Beyond Award for his work with the Asia Regional Casualty Actuaries (ARECA).
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I am honored to have been given the opportunity to serve as CAS ARECA President and tried my best to organize as many events and activities for CAS members in Asia to earn CPD credits and to get to know one another. We had a mixture of virtual meetings and onsite seminars and the latter were quite well attended as most countries in the region were getting out of COVID and restrictions. I could not have done this without my great team of volunteers, CAS staff member and CAS Asia Ambassador who helped make the work easier. Through the activities, I got to know our volunteers and members better and hopefully managed to bring the CAS community in Asia closer, especially the new members who may feel “lost” after completing the CAS exams. I had the opportunity to engage with local regulator, universities and employers in CAS capacity which I would not have been able to do in my own capacity. I even had the opportunity to have dinner with CAS President and Asia Ambassador at a local food street in Singapore.
Is there one aspect of volunteering that stands out?
Unlike my other volunteer work which are focused on Singapore, CAS ARECA is one that spans across Asia. As CAS members are spread across Asia and with limited number of volunteers, we had to decide which territories to focus on and then search for volunteers in those territories to join the committee. CAS is the world’s only actuarial organization focused exclusively on P&C risks; while CAS members are given priority for our events which are generally complimentary, we extended our events to local members of other actuarial organizations.
What is the thing you are most proud of with regards to volunteering?
After all, we are volunteers with day jobs and the CAS community in Asia is relatively small, I was fortunate to have gathered my team of volunteers who were committed and took precious time off to organize events in their respective territories. I could not have been done it and as a result won the Above and Beyond Achievement Award without my team’s support.
What advice do you have for new CAS members just getting their start in volunteering?
I believe there are many people who would like to volunteer but do not know where to start or how much time and effort is required. Whenever you are ready to volunteer for CAS which you received your actuarial accreditation from, you can contact our CAS staff member or any of our ARECA or ARWG member. Sometimes just reaching out to another CAS member may know someone or may eventually lead to someone who is a volunteer. There are various volunteering opportunities, ranging from ad-hoc speaker engagements, running professionalism programs, special interest taskforce and workgroups to committees, and there should be some work that may interest you more than others. For CAS ARECA committee, we welcome volunteers from Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, India, Philippines and any other territory in the Asian region. For more information, please contact Bo Lin at blin@casact.org.
