BIP Winter 2025

Healthcare is Local

A close-knit chapter with big-state energy

Through consistent programming and a collaborative spirit, NABIP New Jersey brings members together.

Year after year, NABIP New Jersey has turned its statewide events into can’t-miss gatherings of education and camaraderie. A tight-knit volunteer base, purposeful programming and a shared pride in bringing people together have become the foundation of the Platinum-Certified chapter’s success. “We’re a small state, so no one is more than a couple of hours away,” says Jim Lardiere, president. “That makes it easier to stay connected, and it shows in how active and engaged our members are.” Each year, NABIP New Jersey anchors its calendar with two major statewide events: the state conference in May and the State of the State

of Healthcare Symposium in October. Both draw large crowds. The state conference, held in Atlantic City, reached record attendance in 2025 with over 550 participants and 75 exhibitors, making it one of the largest state conferences. The three-day event blends CE courses, networking and an exhibit hall buzzing with brokers, carriers, TPAs and vendors. “It’s educational, social and collaborative,” says Greg Roth, president-elect and chair

of the 2026 conference. “You see people you may only catch up with once a year — competitors, colleagues, friends. We share ideas and walk away smarter than when we arrived.” The fall State of the State in Healthcare Symposium, chaired by Ray Pokorny, offers a policy-driven complement to the spring conference. This year’s theme, If It’s Broken, Fix It, took a candid look at systemic challenges in healthcare and brought together speakers from

Ray Pokorny, State of the State chair and Jim Lardiere, state president, wel comed members to the State of the State in Healthcare Symposium.

The team from BenefitMall (now CRC Benefits) had a great time at their Mexican-themed booth at the May 2025 NABIP-NJ annual convention.

46 bip magazine Winter 2025