PIA National Announces 2025 Award Winners

Left to right: Ariel Rivera, PIA National President, David O'Neil, Candice Thompson, Holden Smith, Mike Skiados, PIA National CEO

PIA National Announces 2025 Award Winners

Association Honors Leaders Strengthening the Independent Agency System

WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 28, 2025) – The National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) has announced the winners of its 2025 PIA National Awards, celebrating the agents and companies driving innovation, professionalism, and growth across the independent agency channel.

This year’s honorees exemplify leadership, service, and a deep commitment to advancing the independent agency system:

·       Agent of the Year: Holden Smith, Lennox Insurance
Holden Smith founded Lennox Insurance from the ground up, growing it into a multi-location agency through strategic acquisitions and strong carrier partnerships. A past president of PIA Arkansas and current national director, Smith has been instrumental in shaping PIA’s long-term strategy and fostering member development. A dedicated community leader, he also serves on local boards and leads charitable initiatives that benefit Arkansas families and educators.

·       Company Award of Excellence: Arlington/Roe
Founded in 1964, Arlington/Roe is a third-generation, family-owned MGA and wholesale broker that has become a cornerstone of the independent agency network. Licensed in all 50 states, the company offers agents access to more than 200 markets, exceptional underwriting expertise, and trusted relationships that fuel business growth. Through the Francis Roe Center for Professional Growth and partnerships like TrueU, Arlington/Roe invests heavily in education and workforce development. Named one of Indiana’s Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Best Places to Work, the company defines success by the success of its agents, employees, and the independent channel as a whole.

·       Young Insurance Professional of the Year: David O’Neil, Beacon Insurance
David O’Neil launched Beacon Insurance in 2013 and has grown it into a thriving agency with six employees and over 100 perfect five-star Google reviews. Known for his leadership and operational excellence, O’Neil maintains strong carrier relationships and stays ahead of industry trends. An active member of PIA, YPIA, IAOA, and Insurance Soup, he mentors emerging professionals and advocates for agency growth. Outside the industry, O’Neil serves his community through volunteerism, youth sports, and more than 20 years in the Army Reserves.

·       Customer Service Representative of the Year: Candice Thompson, KilGo Insurance
Candice Thompson is known for her exceptional service, deep expertise, and unwavering dedication to clients. She helped design her agency’s service systems and pioneered the use of an AI-powered phone platform to enhance customer experience. Recognized for her around-the-clock client care and consistent five-star reviews, Thompson also gives back through causes including the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Children’s Hospital, and Beyond Boundaries. A proud PIA supporter, she continues to advance her professional credentials through life and health licensing and pursuit of the CPIA designation.

“At a time when technology, risk, and customer expectations are evolving at record speed, independent agents remain the trusted advisors clients rely on most,” said Mike Skiados, PIA CEO. “This year’s honorees represent the best of our industry—leaders who put people first, champion innovation, and strengthen the future of independent agencies.”

Founded in 1931, the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) represents independent insurance agents and their employees who sell and service all types of insurance, specializing in coverage for automobiles, homes, and businesses.

Visit www.pianational.org for more information.