BIP Summer 2025

ask why I have so many letters after my name,” she says. “But I believe if you're leading professional development, you should experience it yourself.” Even now, her pursuit of knowledge continues. In addition to law school, Rider is a certified facilitator for substance use disorders through the NET Institute Center for Addiction & Recovery Education and teaches HR and DEI courses at Purdue. This commitment goes beyond career advancement. “The industry is constantly evolving,” Rider says. “To be effective, you have to keep learning.” Vulnerability as a strength Rider’s leadership style blends ambition with authenticity. She speaks openly about her learning disabilities and ADHD, something she first revealed during a last-minute TED-style talk at a NABIP convention. “I

A LEADER AT HOME Susan Rider makes time for what matters most: her husband, Noah, and their daughter, Mikey. The family travels often and intentionally, immersing themselves in local cultures and cuisines. “In Japan, Mikey could plan every train route with Google Maps,” Rider says. At home, the family cooks together, exploring global dishes. While her husband and daughter play video games, Rider unwinds with books. Rider’s reading habits mirror her leadership approach: thoughtful, wide ranging and deeply intentional. “I seek out books that challenge me, whether they’re about leadership or perspectives I don’t share,” she says. “You grow by listening, even when you disagree.”

had to go on stage and talk for 15 minutes about myself. I didn’t know what to say, so I told the truth,” she says. That moment sparked deeper conversations about neurodiversity and helped her connect with clients, colleagues and students. “When we share what makes us different, it creates space for others to show up as they are,” says Rider. “That’s where real connection happens.” As NABIP President, Rider is building on the foundation laid by Alycia Riedl’s Future Forward theme. With Racing Ahead as her own theme, Rider wants to accelerate progress, encouraging members and leaders alike to think boldly, act intentionally and prepare for what’s next. “Alycia challenged us to take a hard look at what’s

working. Now it’s time to move forward with that clarity and confidence,” she says. Rider’s goals for the year include expanding leadership development opportunities, positioning NABIP as a trusted source for legislators and media, and ensuring the association reflects the communities it serves. She wants to spark innovation across all levels and make the profession attractive to a new generation of benefits professionals. Rider also highlights the importance of NABIP’s governance. “The House of Delegates is a cornerstone of how we operate,” she says. “Elections, bylaw changes, board accountability — it all happens there. It’s crucial that the right voices are at the table.”

Create space for others to lead by showing up authentically and making room at the table.

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