Fuel, Focus, and Future Leaders: PLUS Attendee Breakfast Kicks Off Veterans Day with Purpose

There’s something powerful about beginning a day with connection and Tuesday morning’s breakfast gathering delivered exactly that. As the sun rose over conference day two, PLUS members gathered for a nourishing breakfast that fed more than just the agenda. It fueled recognition, inspiration, and meaningful conversation.

We started by celebrating the future of our own community with the rising stars that are redefining what leadership looks like in our industry.

Announcing the 2025 Emerging Leader Award Recipients

PLUS proudly recognized three outstanding young professionals whose drive, innovation, and impact are shaping the future of professional liability:

• Alaina Clemmons – E&O Executive Underwriter, Canopius US
• Mike Galati – Senior Complex Claims Director, Berkley Professional Liability
• Tiffany Parker-Bogan – Managing Account Executive, Travelers

These emerging leaders are not just excelling in their roles but influencing change and inspiring others along the way.

After the celebration, the energy continued with an insightful keynote from Tony Chimera, Chief Administrative Officer at Westfield Specialty, whose 30+ years in human resources and specialty insurance have shaped his deeply people-first philosophy. Tony shared what every organization needs to hear:

• You should be constantly recruiting–your network is something you want to utilize and grow and build.
• Keep a little black book of talent so you know who to draw on in the future when positions arise, and whether that is tomorrow or five years from now, you’ll be ahead.
• Speed to market and timely communication matters.

He explored:

• How to attract and retain high-potential talent.
• The practices that build confidence, capability, and culture.
• Why leadership pipelines must be intentional, not accidental.

Attendees left with both breakfast and blueprints full of ideas to fuel their own careers and the future leaders around them.

A morning of purpose. A celebration of service. A spotlight on tomorrow’s changemakers.