America's Benefit Specialist August-September 2022

MIKE GRAY

provided. Mike is a humble man who does not seek accolades for his accomplishments but he is well-deserving of this recognition.” Dean Hoffman: “I first met Mike when he came to Wisconsin as the NAHU Region 4 vice president. From that point forward, it was clear that I had met a true leader in the health insurance industry. True leaders are hard to find; some will sit back and tell you what to do, others will take credit for the work of others, and some will pull up their sleeves and dive right into the project with you. Mike is that sort of leader that dove right in to help. Mike’s goal for Region 4 was strategic: seek and win the National Membership Cup. With that membership growth and enthusiasm, all other objectives such as HUPAC, Professional Development and Legislative engagement will fall into place… and they did! The first responsibility of a true leader is to define reality and make the ask. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader must be a servant, and Mike Gray is that impeccable servant leader!” The second honoree is a true industry visionary, John M. Word III. As co‐founder of Word & Brown General Agency and The Word & Brown Companies (with Edward J. “Rusty” Brown Jr.), John trans formed the insurance broker’s role in the small-group health benefits marketplace in California and across the country. John began his career as a licensed insurance agent in the 1970s, excelling in life insurance sales to individuals. He later expanded into selling health insurance plans to small businesses. In the early 1980s, John met Rusty and the two formed the Word & Brown General Agency. In the days before the Internet and personal computers, John saw the need to systemize processes, take current available technology

one of the finest people I know, and I feel very privileged to have had the opportunity to work closely with him over many years. He is a very deserving winner of the Gordon Memorial Award and we were honored to bestow that honor on him at our convention in Austin this year.” Past NAHU President Russ Childers: “Mike is one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. He is friendly with everyone and is always willing to help out when it’s needed. He is also the only guy you will run into in the lobby at 6:00 in the morning looking like it’s noon and he spent the last two hours getting dressed for the day. (I’ve actually seen this!) And he looks the same at midnight. Several of us have the opinion that ‘he’ is actually four identical clones. But seriously, he always takes time to discuss things, offer his well-stud ied opinion, and come up with a good idea for action. The other thing I have noticed: He pays attention to everyone. If they say hello, he wants to talk, making people know their opinions are valued. A great guy!” Dwane McFerrin: “Mike Gray has given his time tirelessly and relentlessly in support of NAHU in terms of HUPAC, membership and the business of the association. Not sure how many producers he’s recruited to join NAHU or for a member to increase giving, but I know it has had a big impact for the association. Mike networks with others to spread the message of advocacy and has an impact well beyond Region 4. I can’t think of a more deserving person to earn the Gordon Award.” Congressman Jeff Fortenberry: “I have known Mike for many years and his commitment to the industry and community is evident. I appreciate his expertise and am grateful for the guidance he has

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