Why WIFS?

In an industry full of professional associations vying for your attention, it's a legitimate question.

For 75 years, this organization has stood strong for women helping women in an industry that can be difficult and challenging. We enter 2011 with a membership that continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Over 1,000 women have already discovered the resources, inspiration, and friendships that WIFS offers.

The WIFS Board of Directors is committed to serving WIFS members. We're listening and responding to your needs, and we're working to bring you the best speakers, the best programs, and the best resources. In 2011 WIFS will bring you an outstanding National Conference in Portland, Oregon, monthly webinars (free to members), new online resources, valuable e-newsletters, and exciting regional events.

WIFS is a vital and unique organization. Every day our members find motivation, inspiration, support, knowledge, and mentors through the WIFS network. As many of you have found out, whether you're new to the field or an experienced professional, WIFS offers members a plethora of valuable resources.

I'm proud to announce that in 2011 the WIFS Corporate Partner program is as strong as ever. Our Partners are committed to supporting the careers of their female agents, reps, and managers. Please join me in extending our heartfelt thanks to our Corporate Partners supporting WIFS in 2011: MassMutual Financial Group, MetLife, Guardian, Northwestern Mutual, Penn Mutual, Prudential, John Hancock Financial Network, Lincoln Financial, New York Life, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Transamerica Financial Advisors/Transamerica Agency Group and The Standard.

While other industry organizations struggle to retain members, WIFS is experiencing growth on all fronts- in fact, we're the fastest growing association in the industry. Throughout history, women have pulled together to raise one another up and overcome daunting challenges. In 2011, we still band together as a group, knowing that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Why WIFS? Because no other organization offers professional resources and support geared specifically towards women in this industry. As WIFS grows in numbers, it also grows in strength. Today we are a stronger industry force. We are attracting women to the industry, supporting women as they develop their careers, and empowering our members to advance their profession. As a WIFS member, you are not only supporting your own career- you're supporting the careers of thousands of women.

I am proud to be a WIFS member, and I am proud to serve as your president this year.

Warm regards,

Karen Roberts
National President, 2011-2012