Joel Dunham Named Chair of PIA Ascending Leaders Council

Joel Dunham Named Chair of PIA Ascending Leaders Council

Agency owner and former PIA of Indiana president will lead national group focused on developing and engaging the next generation of independent insurance professionals

WASHINGTON, D.C., September 29, 2026 — The National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) today announced that Joel Dunham, owner of Ovation Insurance in Fort Wayne, Indiana, has been named Chair of PIA’s Ascending Leaders Council, a national group created to bring the perspectives of emerging independent insurance leaders into PIA and help prepare the next generation for leadership in the industry. Dunham replaces Jessica Bankston Miller, Merger Integration Specialist, Gallagher, who is moving to the role of immediate past chair.

Dunham has been a member of the Ascending Leaders Council since its launch in 2025. The Council brings together next-generation independent agents from across the country to identify challenges facing newer professionals and help develop practical resources, education, and programs to support their success. Its work addresses issues ranging from professional development and mentorship to emerging technology, changing customer expectations, and the evolving agency workplace.

“Joel has grown an agency, served in leadership within PIA, and has a real commitment to helping others succeed,” said Mike Skiados, CEO of PIA National. “That combination of experience and perspective makes him an excellent choice to lead the Ascending Leaders Council as we continue to expand its role within PIA.”

Dunham took ownership of Ovation Insurance in 2016 and has quadrupled the size of the Fort Wayne-based agency while guiding it through a changing insurance marketplace. He previously served as president of PIA of Indiana and has remained actively involved in PIA leadership and initiatives at both the state and national levels.

As Chair, Dunham will work with Council members and PIA leadership to build on the group’s early work and identify new ways PIA can support professionals as they grow their careers and take on greater leadership responsibilities.

“There is a real need for new leaders in this industry and people need opportunities to learn, connect with others, ask questions and take on new challenges,” said Dunham. “The Ascending Leaders Council can help create those opportunities and resources. I’m excited to help more people see the kind of career and leadership opportunities that exist in the independent agency system.”

The Ascending Leaders Council gives emerging insurance professionals a stronger voice within PIA and provides a national forum for sharing ideas, identifying challenges and developing solutions. Council members serve three-year terms and represent independent agencies from across the country.

 “The people building their careers and businesses today are experiencing the industry from a different vantage point. We want their ideas helping to shape the programs, resources and priorities PIA develops for the future. Joel will be an important bridge between those emerging leaders and the broader PIA organization,” said Skiados.