Hemphill was sworn in alongside four other national officers: Richard A. Savino, CIC, CPIA, of Warwick, New York, President-elect; Ariel Rivera, MBA, CIC, CPIA, of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Vice President/Treasurer; Mark A. Suhr, CIC, CPIA, of Seward, Nebraska, Secretary/Assistant Treasurer; and Anthony "Tony" Curti, CIC, All of the officers will serve one-year terms beginning on October 1, 2022 and ending on September 30, 2023.
“PIA is constantly expanding its ability to be the preferred resource for independent agents,” said Hemphill. “During my installation remarks in San Diego, I mentioned a quote that has made a significant impact on me and one that I keep at my desk, ‘Change is inevitable, Growth is optional.’” Hemphill stated that PIA is currently on the rise as a result of significant advances in key areas in recent years. He stated that PIA quickly adapted to changes in the business environment caused by the coronavirus crisis, having already invested in technology upgrades. He praised PIA's tenacious advocacy on behalf of independent agents, which has resulted in legislative and regulatory victories that have boosted agencies' bottom lines.
“Our Association heads into 2023 in a position of strength, purpose and vision,” he said. With many initiatives, programs, products and services, there are a lot of exciting things happening within our Association, and I look forward to serving alongside our Board, Members, Staff, Affiliates and Carrier partners. I am humbled and grateful for this opportunity.”
Gerald has been an independent insurance agent in the Richmond, Virginia area since 1993, representing all lines of insurance while specializing in commercial and life insurance risks. He worked as an agent for a large domestic carrier for five years before opening his own agency.
Gerald received his LUTCF (Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow) designation in 1996 and his CIC (Certified Insurance Counselor) designation in 2002. He is a Campbell University and Fork Union Military Academy graduate. He also has property and casualty, life, health, and annuity licenses in addition to his designations.
Hemphill served on the National Board of PIA since 2013 and was President of the Professional Insurance Agents Association of Virginia/DC in 2010. In 2012, he was named the PIA of Virginia/DC Agent of the Year.
Gerald and his wife have two daughters, Ashley and Taylor.
PIA is a national trade association that represents member insurance agents and their employees who sell and service all types of insurance but specialize in coverage for automobiles, homes, and businesses. It was founded in 1931. The website for PIA is http://www.pianational.org.