CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Independent Insurance Agents of West Virginia (Big I WV) announced its 2026 award recipients, honoring outstanding professionalism, leadership, and service in the state’s independent insurance community. The awards were presented at the Association’s annual convention held October 14-16 at Stonewall Resort.
- Earle S. Dillard Agent of the Year Award: Clinton Winter, Logan, WV
Honored for career-long leadership, service, and dedication to independent agents. Winter has led Bray & Oakley Insurance Agency as President and CEO since 1982, guiding its growth to five offices in two states.
- C.F.L. Chamberlaine Company Representative Award: Lisa Hamrick, Charleston, WV
Recognized for outstanding professionalism and service to independent agents. Hamrick serves as a Commercial Lines Territory Manager with Encova Insurance.
- Ross Johnson Good Steward Award: Deanna Swisher, Poca, WV
Recognized for exceptional service and dedication to Big “I” WV’s mission. Swisher owns City Insurance Services and brings more than 30 years of industry experience and extensive community involvement.
- Robert “Bob” Ashley Legislator of the Year Award: Walter “Walt” Hall, St. Albans, WV
Honored for legislative leadership supporting independent insurance agents and West Virginians. Hall represents the 58th District in the House of Delegates and is an agent with Morris Insurance Services.
- Appreciation Recognition: Allan McVey, St. Albans, WV
Presented an appreciation gift for decades of service to West Virginia’s insurance industry, including serving as Insurance Commissioner and Secretary of Administration.
For additional information, contact the Big I West Virginia at (304) 342-2440.
About the Independent Insurance Agents of West Virginia
The Big I West Virginia – Independent Insurance Agents of West Virginia, Inc. (Big I WV) is West Virginia’s oldest and largest insurance trade association. Big I WV represents more than 2,000 licensed independent insurance agents whose primary emphasis is on property and casualty insurance. Independent agencies range in size from a family-owned one-office firm to a statewide multi-office firm. Big I WV is a member of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of American (IIABA). To learn more, visit www.bigiwv.org.
