2026/27 Emerging Leaders Program
Acting under Pennsylvania NABIP’s guiding principles of EDUCATE, COMMUNICATE & ADVOCATE, we are proud to offer our highly successful Emerging Leaders Program to select young professionals in the Greater Philadelphia and Pittsburgh regions who have demonstrated strong potential for growth and advancement within our industry.
PA-NABIP’s Emerging Leaders Program is designed to provide participants with meaningful exposure to senior leadership across both the healthcare insurance industry and the broader business community. Through intimate dialogue and direct interaction with accomplished leaders, the program offers valuable perspective, insight, and mentorship to help accelerate already promising careers.
This program creates unique personal and professional development opportunities for rising industry professionals by connecting them with senior-level business and industry leaders in a setting that encourages learning, relationship-building, and career growth.
The Emerging Leaders Program will be a 14-month program commencing in May 2026 during which selected participants will meet with leadership from area carriers, broker firms, legislative and technology companies.
Program highlights will include:
- Welcome event to kick off the Emerging Leaders program
- Monthly in-person meetings providing exposure to relevant leadership perspectives and experiences through intimate discussions, case studies, and featured speakers.
- Periodic networking gatherings with fellow participants, PA-NABIP leadership and members as well as executives throughout the program
- Inclusion in all the Pennsylvania NABIP education and networking events throughout the program
- Courtesy admission to the 2027 Pennsylvania NABIP Annual Conference
- Program conclusion luncheon
Requirements
- Participants ideally will have at least 4-5 years of experience and serve in a leadership capacity either at their employer or in their community.
- Participants should have support from senior leadership within their company prior to applying for the program.
- Each candidate will be asked to submit a letter of professional reference, their resume, and a current headshot.
- Participants should expect to dedicate 10-12 hours per quarter to this program.
Emerging Leaders, once chosen, would be required to do the following:
- Actively participate in all Emerging Leaders events and projects
- Volunteer as requested at selected Pennsylvania NABIP events throughout the program period
- Recruit one new member to join the Pennsylvania NABIP during the program period
- Maintain membership in Pennsylvania NABIP – All NEW members will receive a $75 discount off first year of annual dues
- Submit program participation fee of $395. Fee is discounted to $295 if participant works for a current Corporate Partner of the Pennsylvania NABIP
We hope you will consider applying for or encouraging an emerging leader in your company, industry, or networking circle to apply for this meaningful program.
For additional information, please contact Karen A. Weinlader, PA-NABIP Executive Director at kweinlader@pa-nabip.org or
Cally Sullivan, Emerging Leaders EAST Chair at cally.sullivan@ibx.com
JB Bernstein, Emerging Leaders EAST Chair at Jonathan.Bernstein@AleraGA.com
Previous Years
For additional information, please contact Karen A. Weinlader, PA-NABIP Executive Director at kweinlader@pa-nabip.org or Cally Sullivan, Emerging Leaders Chair at cally.sullivan@ibx.com.
Important Deadlines
| April 24, 2026 | Deadline for Emerging Leaders applications |
| Week of May 4th, 2026 | Notification of accepted participants |
TESTIMONIALS
The Emerging Leader program was instrumental in addressing the constant shifting of the Pennsylvania health insurance industry landscape. It not only helped me forge invaluable connections within the community, but also significantly expanded my knowledge base of industry’s intricacies. The professional development I gained through this experience has been pivotal, equipping me with a broader understanding and a stronger network that will undoubtedly benefit my career.
Josie Corbacio Dougherty, MHA
Sales Executive | Small Group Southeastern PA
Highmark Blue Shield
The Emerging Leaders Program was an incredible opportunity to connect with local industry leaders, gain new perspectives from brokers, carriers, and vendors, and build a strong network of peers across the industry. It has had a lasting impact on my professional growth, and I would encourage anyone considering it to take full advantage of the program.
Brian McClatchy
Sales Representative, Group Benefit Solutions
New York Life Group Benefits
The Emerging Leaders Program was a critical part of my early career development. The program increased my understanding of the local health insurance products, as well as improved my overall network in the industry. I would highly recommend this program for any aspiring young benefit consultants or insurance sales representatives in the Philadelphia area.
RJ Reger
New Business Manager
Cigna
The Emerging Leaders Program was a transformative experience that strengthened my confidence, industry knowledge, and ability to collaborate effectively with others. Through meaningful connections and hands-on learning, I gained valuable insights and tools that will continue to guide my personal and professional growth. I would highly recommend the Emerging Leaders Program to any young professional looking to expand their network and better understand the potential trajectory of their career.
Marcy Donatelli
Strategic Account Executive
Health & Benefits Partners
The Emerging Leaders program challenged me to think bigger, connect deeper, and grow faster as an insurance professional. The relationships, insights, and access you gain make this a can’t miss opportunity for anyone serious about leadership in our industry.
Jourdan Englert, M. Ed
Senior Manager of Client Success, West Region
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