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About Us

Learn about NAAIA’s mission, values, and history. Dive deeper into our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the insurance industry.

Our Mission & Philosophy

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower Black professionals in the insurance industry by providing unparalleled educational resources, invaluable mentorship opportunities, robust networking, and recognition of industry achievements. We are committed to fostering professional development and community outreach, creating a supportive environment where our members can thrive and excel.

Our Philosophy

NAAIA is rooted in the belief that diversity strengthens the insurance industry. We are committed to empowering Black professionals by providing a supportive environment where education, mentorship, and networking flourish. Our philosophy centers on fostering growth, celebrating achievements, and driving systemic change to create a more inclusive and equitable industry. We strive to cultivate a community that values representation, professional development, and the advancement of underrepresented talent. At NAAIA, we believe in the transformative power of connection and leadership in shaping a brighter future for all.

Our Mission & Philosophy

A Legacy of Leadership, Empowerment, and Impact

NAAIA Raleigh-Durham History

NAAIA Raleigh-Durham was created by professionals who saw a need and chose to lead. After attending the 2024 NAAIA National Conference, local leaders recognized that the Raleigh-Durham area was ready for a space that could bring Black insurance professionals together in meaningful ways. What started as a conversation quickly became a commitment.

Though we are in the early stages of development, our chapter is grounded in purpose. We are here to build community, open doors, and create lasting impact. Our work is inspired by the strength of the national organization and driven by the energy, culture, and potential of the Triangle. We are shaping a future where Black professionals in insurance feel seen, supported, and connected right here in Raleigh-Durham.


You’re Not Alone with NAAIA Raleigh-Durham

Across the country, professionals just like you are part of a growing NAAIA network committed to excellence, inclusion, and transformation. Whether you’re launching your career, pivoting into new roles, or mentoring others, NAAIA is here to walk with you.

Whats Next for Raleigh-Durham?

Our Chapter is just getting started. With launch events, new programs, and community partnerships on the horizon, there are many ways to get involved. Whether you want to attend an event, become a member, or partner with us, this site is your hub for connection and next steps.

Visit our events page to see what’s coming up, join as a member through NAAIA.org, or see our latest news to stay informed and engaged.

Our History

NAAIA Raleigh-Durham
Executive Board

Our chapter is led by a committed executive board focused on growth, strategy, and community impact. Meet the leaders shaping our work, and explore open roles if you’re ready to lead with purpose.

President
About Me

Tiah
Boler

President

Board Member

Tiah R. Boler, CISR, AAI, CBIA, CRIS, is a seasoned insurance professional with over 24 years of experience specializing in underwriting, risk analysis, and client management within the commercial property, casualty, and surety sectors. Currently serving as a Senior Middle Market Underwriter at Builders Mutual Insurance Company, Tiah expertly manages a $13 million book of business focused on the construction industry across North and South Carolina. Known for her analytical precision and relationship-driven approach, she consistently surpasses performance benchmarks, including maintaining a loss ratio under 50% and a renewal retention rate of 89%.

Before her current role, Tiah held key positions at McGriff Insurance Services (formerly BB&T), where she advanced from Commercial Sales Agent to Small Surety Service Manager, overseeing staff development, workflow systems, and client retention initiatives. Earlier in her career, she honed her technical skills at Liberty Mutual/Ohio Casualty, managing underwriting for complex contractor accounts and leading quality control efforts. A proud graduate of Hampton University with a BS in Marketing, Tiah holds multiple industry certifications and is an active member of NAAIA. Her leadership and deep industry insight make her a valued expert in construction-focused insurance solutions.

Vice President
About Me

Siri
Svay

Vice President

Board Member

Siri Svay is a dynamic and DEI-certified communications and culture professional with over a decade of experience in digital marketing, employee engagement, and inclusive workplace strategies. Currently serving as Culture and Engagement Specialist at IAT Insurance Group, she drives employee experience initiatives through impactful internal communications, diversity programs, and large-scale corporate events. Siri serves on the I&D Advisory Council alongside executive leadership and is instrumental in advancing organizational belonging through storytelling, charitable initiatives, and strategic partnerships.

Beyond her role at IAT, Siri plays a national leadership role as Marketing Strategist with the Asian American Insurance Network (AAIN), where she leads multi-platform communications and branding efforts that align with the organization’s mission. She has also held multiple volunteer board and committee roles, including as Board Secretary at WriteHive and as National DEI Committee Co-Chair for the Association for Accounting Marketing, where she designed inclusive programming, facilitated national trainings, and influenced conference planning at the board level.

Previously, Siri was Practice Growth Senior Specialist at PKF Texas, where she spearheaded award-winning digital marketing strategies, oversaw brand visibility across nine platforms, and contributed to firm-wide DEI initiatives. Known for her strong organizational acumen, inclusive leadership, and collaborative spirit, Siri continually champions culture-building across industries. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from the University of Texas at Austin and is highly skilled in CMS platforms, analytics, and creative media production.

Secretary
About Me

Troy
Lee

Secretary

Board Member

Troy Lee is a Senior Employee Benefi ts Account Manager at McGriff Insurance Services (MMA) and serves as the Secretary on the board of NAAIA. With nine years of experience in the insurance industry, Troy has held various roles at Blue Cross NC, including sales, claims, and appeals, before transitioning to the broker side. He is also a Group Disability Specialist and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and a Master’s of Public Administration.

Troy’s primary focus and expertise lie in delivering white-glove concierge service and fostering client retention. He is dedicated to providing exceptional service and fostering meaningful client relationships, committed to continuous growth and community engagement.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Troy enjoys writing and reading scripts, coaching adult female fl ag football, and serving as the Deputy Commissioner for BallHer’s Choice Sports Initiative in the RDU area. He also has a passion for video games, exploring diverse cuisines, and traveling.

His favorite quote, from Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy, refl ects his mindset: “Your only job is to make your team better.”

Troy is passionate about advancing the mission of NAAIA and growing the brand of the newly formed Raleigh-Durham chapter. He invites others to join in building a stronger, more connected community dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the insurance industry.

Treasurer
About Me

Adam
Woodford

Treasurer

Board Member

Adam Mark Woodford, M.A., is a seasoned benefits and insurance consultant with over 16 years of expertise in employee benefits strategy, risk management, and compliance. Recognized for his client-focused approach and deep knowledge of alternative funding models, Adam has delivered measurable outcomes for clients ranging from small businesses to large corporations. His leadership at CBIZ Benefits & Insurance and USI Insurance Services has earned him national recognition, including CBIZ’s prestigious Crystal Award and ranking as a top-performing producer.

Adam’s career spans a range of influential roles, including Vice President of Business Development at Evolution Healthcare and WellNet Healthcare, where he played a key role in launching new health plans and driving brand visibility. At Sun Life Financial and ING Employee Benefits, he excelled in medical stop-loss strategy and group benefits sales, consistently exceeding growth targets and building lasting broker and TPA relationships across the Mid-Atlantic.

A graduate of Robert Morris University and La Salle University, Adam holds both Life & Health and Property & Casualty licenses and is certified in ERM and alternative funded healthcare. His professional strengths are complemented by a background in leadership, public speaking, video production, and community service. An accomplished track & field athlete and coach, Adam blends strategic thinking with disciplined execution, making him a powerful partner in advancing client benefit solutions.


Our Officers

Committee Chairs

Our committee chairs turn ideas into action. They lead outreach, plan programs, grow membership, and create spaces where professionals feel seen, supported, and connected.

If you’re passionate about contributing your time and talent, consider applying for a leadership role that aligns with your strengths.

Member Chair
About Me

Corinthas
Patterson

Member Chair

Board Member

Corinthas Patterson II is a dynamic and customer-focused insurance professional currently serving as an Associate Underwriter at IAT Insurance Group in Raleigh, NC. With a keen eye for risk analysis and a passion for client service, he evaluates daily submissions and agency assignments, ensuring underwriting decisions align with company guidelines. Corinthas is recognized for building strong agency relationships and was awarded IAT’s Silver Spot Award in both 2024 and 2025 for his commitment to excellence and collaborative approach.

Prior to joining the insurance industry, Corinthas cultivated a strong foundation in operations and customer service through leadership roles in the pest control and lawn care sectors. As Branch Manager at Triangle Pest Control, he played a pivotal role in scaling the lawn care division to over 150 accounts and later served as a termite specialist at Innovative Pest Solutions. His early career includes customer service roles at Trader Joe’s and TruGreen, where he consistently earned praise for his professionalism and work ethic.

Corinthas holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Communications and Business from Shaw University, graduating Summa Cum Laude with a 3.8 GPA. Known for his high energy, public speaking ability, and attention to detail, he continues to blend creativity with business acumen to advance in the insurance field while delivering exceptional service at every level.

Programs Chair
About Me

Tanya
Simmons

Programs Chair

Board Member

With over two decades of claims and risk management expertise, this accomplished insurance professional currently serves as a Global Risk Auditor at Amazon, Inc., where they lead performance guarantee and targeted audits, focusing on emerging risks and cross-functional collaboration to improve processes and outcomes. Their work includes delivering risk assessments to key stakeholders and driving automation and efficiency across audit and claims management practices.

Previously, they served as Corporate Auto Risk Manager at Amazon, managing litigated and non-litigated claims handled by Third Party Administrators and offering subject matter expertise on high-exposure issues. Their leadership journey also includes impactful roles at IAT Insurance Group, where they advanced from Senior Claims Specialist to Commercial Claims Manager, overseeing teams of up to 21 professionals, launching first-of-its-kind programs, and enhancing departmental operations by 50%.

Their earlier career includes roles at Travelers Insurance and Progressive Insurance, where they honed their expertise in liability claims and casualty leadership. Across all roles, they’ve demonstrated a consistent ability to develop staff, streamline workflows, and influence strategic outcomes in high-volume, high-stakes environments. Their track record reflects deep industry knowledge, operational insight, and a strong commitment to evolving claims and risk strategies.

Agent Chair
About Me

Reginald
Wright

Agent Chair

Board Member

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Marketing/PR Chair
About Me

Theresa
Avery

Marketing/PR Chair

Board Member

Theresa Avery is an accomplished operations leader with a strong foundation in communications, project management, and corporate training. Currently serving as Business Operations Support Supervisor for North Carolina Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company, Theresa oversees an eight-person team supporting nearly 200 offices statewide. Her role encompasses strategic oversight of telecommunications, office relocations, lease agreements, vendor management, and budget analysis for a $3 million operating budget. She is also leading major technology transitions, including a statewide Voice over IP rollout and new lease management software implementation.

Theresa’s career at NCFB spans over two decades, with prior leadership as Resource Development Unit Supervisor, where she managed up to 14 corporate trainers, authored internal communications, and facilitated onboarding and training initiatives. A skilled communicator and creative force, she has also supported company conferences and branding efforts—delivering keynote addresses, producing internal media, and serving as the host of NCFB’s Field and Family TV Show on RFD-TV from 2012 to 2017. Her versatility and leadership have made her a trusted partner for both executive teams and field staff.

With a B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Theresa blends editorial precision with operational savvy. Her extensive skill set includes public speaking, technical writing, course design, and voiceover work. Recognized for her adaptability, problem-solving, and team mentorship, Theresa continues to champion innovation and excellence across corporate operations and communications.

Emerging Leaders Chair
About Me

Kimberly
Velazquez

Emerging Leaders Chair

Board Member

With over twenty years of experience identifying the right talent to help companies build strong teams and foster great workplaces, Kimberly Velazquez is a human resources leader who makes a meaningful impact. She is passionate about her work at Builders Mutual, where she leads a team of talent acquisition partners. Kimberly focuses on creating initiatives that promote inclusion and diversity, enhance employee engagement, influence company culture, support community initiatives, and develop early career intern programs.

Outside of work, Kimberly enjoys spending time with her husband, Hector, and their children, Gabriel, Giada, and Giovanna. She delights in sipping a fruity green tea in the morning, exploring delicious food, and indulging in strawberry shortcake. When she is not attending an athletic event for the GV crew, she enjoys binge-watching series on Netflix.

Nominations & Elections Chair
About Me

Florent
Ndindjock

Nominations & Elections Chair

Board Member

Florent (AC) Ndindjock is Vice President and Client Advisor in Marsh McLennan’s Multinational Practice, where he specializes in global insurance program integration and international risk strategy. Based in the Central Zone, AC serves as a trusted advisor on complex multinational accounts, guiding clients through the evolving landscape of cross-border regulations, local compliance, and custom insurance frameworks. His proactive and strategic approach ensures that multinational insurance programs are aligned with client needs and international service standards.

Since joining Marsh in 2018, AC has leveraged his background in customer service, operations, and financial services to support clients across industries including manufacturing, technology, communications, and media. He began in the Dallas TRAC training program before advancing to the Multinational Practice team in Chicago/Dallas, where he now coordinates with a global network of Marsh advisors. His multilingual capabilities—fluent in English, native French, and conversational Spanish—further enhance his ability to support diverse international clients.

AC holds a BSBA in Risk Management and Insurance, graduating Cum Laude, and an MBA in International Management from the University of Texas at Dallas. He is also a licensed Property and Casualty professional and an active member of the Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS). Known for his thoughtful insight and commitment to client success, AC continues to shape global insurance solutions that meet the demands of today’s rapidly changing regulatory environment.

At-Large Board Member
About Me

James Q.
Dean

At-Large Board Member

Board Member

James Q. Dean is an award-winning financial professional, business coach, and advocate with a strong commitment to community empowerment and financial wellness. Currently serving as Business Development Manager at The Pelora Group, James focuses on expanding access to personalized financial planning and workplace wellness programs across North Carolina. He is also the Founder and CEO of JD Financial Group and Associates Inc., where he has spent nearly a decade helping individuals and businesses align their financial strategies with long-term goals.

James’s influence extends beyond financial planning—he is a nationally recognized speaker and thought leader in diversity within the financial industry. He co-founded BUILD (Blacks Uplifted in Leadership Development) to champion Black leadership in financial services and was honored with the 2023 Community Impact Award (Finseca Lamp Award). His leadership experience includes executive roles at National Life Group and MassMutual, as well as ongoing mentorship through the John Maxwell Team. His public speaking has been featured at the NAIC Summit and Advanced Markets main stages.

A proud graduate of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, James also serves as a guest lecturer and advisory board member at Guilford Technical Community College. His certifications include Business Coach, Certified Behavior Analyst, and Business Valuation Specialist. Known for his strategic thinking, high-energy leadership, and passion for building inclusive communities, James continues to elevate financial literacy and leadership across the industry.

At-Large Board Member
About Me

Nathan
St. Denny

At-Large Board Member

Board Member

Nathan St. Denny is an accomplished Operations Division Manager with a solid foundation in management information systems and over 15 years of experience driving operational efficiency in the insurance industry. A graduate of Rochester Institute of Technology with a BS in Management Information Systems and minors in Accounting and Criminal Justice, Nathan combines analytical rigor with strong leadership to oversee multi-line policy processing and streamline enterprise-wide systems. His work has been central to statewide implementations, including Image Right for Workers Comp and Auto, and documentation for TITAN transitions.

Nathan has held several supervisory roles that reflect his versatility and strategic mindset, including County Office Support Supervisor and Project Development Supervisor. He has successfully led lease management, vendor negotiations, major office transitions, software testing for insurance applications, and cross-functional coordination across departments. Notably, he managed multiple large-scale system rollouts such as the Point IN Java implementation, FARM Account testing, and Delayed Billing protocol enhancements while earning his SAFE agile development certification.

Known for his forward-thinking leadership, Nathan brings a unique blend of technical aptitude and people development to every role. His skills span project management, budget planning, systems analysis, and facilitation, and he is highly proficient in platforms such as WebEx, Microsoft Office, Image Right, and multiple insurance-specific systems. As a former ARMA Events Chair and seasoned team leader, Nathan continues to champion operational improvements and professional growth in every stage of his career.

At Large Board Members

Frequently Asked Questions

How would you define the makeup of NAAIA’s membership and partners?

NAAIA boasts over 2,500 members and partners with influential associations that drive our industry’s success on local, regional, national, and global levels. Our collaborations with carriers, brokerages, agencies, and strategic alliances ensure mutual success by achieving shared goals, benefiting individuals, businesses, and communities alike. With a presence in twenty-five states and growing, NAAIA’s footprint extends across every major region of the country.

Who are NAAIA’s constituents?

NAAIA’s membership includes newcomers, emerging leaders, experienced staff and executives. NAAIA membership is diverse, comprising individuals from various positions and roles such as insurance agents, brokers, insurers, underwriters, claim adjusters, recruiters, legal and financial professionals, and more.

Is NAAIA exclusively for Independent Agents?

No, NAAIA is not exclusive to any one industry segment. NAAIA engages, encourages and supports any and all insurance career professionals, be they employed, unemployed or retired, in industry-related fields, or students interested in insurance.

How Can I Become a Member of NAAIA?

Becoming a member of NAAIA is easy! Visit our Membership Page for more detailed information. Join Us and become part of a vibrant community of Black and African American insurance professionals!

How Can I Attend NAAIA’s National Conference?

Participating in NAAIA’s annual National Conference is a fantastic opportunity to network and learn from industry leaders. Visit our Events Page for information.

What Are the Benefits of Membership?

NAAIA offers networking opportunities, access to insurance education resources, career advancement support, and much more. Visit our Membership Page for more information.

How Can I Stay Updated on NAAIA News and Announcements?

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Frequently Asked Questions