The Risk & Insurance Education Alliance is proud to announce that nominations and appl
ications are now open for the 2026 Outstanding Customer Service Representative of the Year competition—an annual competition focusing on the insurance industry
try’s most dedicated, impactful, and outstanding Customer Service Representatives. The competition runs from April 1, 2026, to August 1, 2026.
2026 Essay Topics
Applicants are invited to submit a 500–1,000-word essay inspired by Love Letters, a reflectiv
e exercise designed to reconnect professionals with the passion, purpose, and personal journey that shape their work.
This essay is inspired by Love Letters, a brief self-reflection activity designed to help you reconnect with what you love about this industry and your profession
ional journey within it. It offers an opportunity to pause, reflect, and articulate the passion, growth, and
purpose that shapes who you are as a CSR today—and who you aspire to be in the future.
In your essay, reflect on what you love about this industry—what first drew you to it, what concerns
nues to inspire you, and why the work matters to you. Consider your professional journey, including
ng key moments, challenges, or milestones that have shaped your growth, the skills and values you are most proud of developing, and how these experiences have in
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influence the way you show up in your role. As part of this reflection, look ahead by sharing how
u hope to make moving forward, and how you see yourself contributing to the continued success and evolution of this industry.
How to Enter or Nominate
Current Customer Service Representatives, CICs, CISRs, and other committed professionals
wishing to recognize an exceptional professional are encouraged to apply or nominate. All entries must be submitted online.
Prize Information
The 2026 National Outstanding CSR of the Year will receive a cash award, national recognition
on, and industry-wide visibility for excellence in service and leadership. National Winner Nominators also receive a cash award!
Jordan’s Furniture, which is part of Berkshire Hathaway, ran a “Make the Finals” promotion during this year’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) “Marc
h Madness” basketball tournament. The retailer promised to refund its customers the full amount of
their recent purchases. Or rather, it promised that its insurance company would refund $50 million thanks to an insurance policy on which Jordan’s paid the premium
. The condition: both the men’s and women’s UConn teams had to make it to their final games.
