With another exciting year coming to a close, here are our favorite highlights and major events you might have missed for the 2022-2023 term and beyond!
July 2022
Letter from the 2022 – 2023 President
I am excited and honored to work with my industry colleagues who are passionate about their careers and serving their clients through these rapidly changing times. Now more than ever, we need to join together to inspire one another; work to educate our community as to the importance of working relationships with agents and brokers; and to create a valued presence and relationship with our legislators on the State and Federal level.
As we embark on a new national rebranding of our association to the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals (NABIP); our local
chapter will be able to truly represent our members the way it was intended. And, by doing so, we can help develop a stronger connection amongst one another to grow our presence as a leader in the community.
We are excited to be back in person! With the ever-changing new ways of forward thinking in our health insurance industry; our goal is to inspire and equip us as leaders to be better and do better. We feel a responsibility to strengthen our sense of community and move forward, together.
As a member, look forward this year to seeing more opportunities to connect with each other as we bring back the basics of our prestigious association. Taking what we learned in the past years’ with going virtual allowed us to find new innovative ways to offer more benefits to our members. Creating new hybrid experiences to learn, collaborate, network, advocate and participate as a community of leaders in our insurance industry moving forward. In keeping with our mission to improve its members’ ability to meet the health, financial and retirement security needs of all Americans through education, advocacy, and professional development; we are eager to increase your access to national, statewide, and local Member Benefits this year.
I look forward to serving you,
Rosamaria Marrujo
SAHU President
2022-2023
SAHU Business Expo 2022
The SAHU Business Expo 2022 at the Citrus Heights Community Center marked our grand return to in-person events. It was a buzz of activity starting from the early morning with registration and a warm welcome from the SAHU President. A standout moment was the induction of the new board by Kevin Kiley, setting a tone of renewal and forward momentum.
The event packed in some powerhouse sessions, like Lisa Hutcherson’s talk on “Why Investing in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Pays Off,” highlighting the tangible benefits of DEI in the workplace. The “Supporting Well-being in the Changing Workplace” session was another hit, focusing on employee wellness in our evolving work environment. Jay Johnson’s take on “Organizational Performance Management” provided valuable insights into enhancing workplace efficiency and productivity. The day also featured an engaging Ancillary Panel, moderated by Josh Keller, discussing the importance of a new class of employee benefits.
The Expo was not just informative but also a great networking opportunity for everyone after such a long time apart.
August 2022
SAHU NorCal Medicare Summit 2022
The SAHU Medicare Summit 2022, with a reception held at the Sacramento Hyatt Regency and trainings held virtually, was a blend of crucial updates and interactive sessions. A highlight was the Federal CMS Legislative Update, where agents got the lowdown on new requirements effective from October 1, 2022, including specifics on call recording and marketing Medicare Advantage. Another key session was the Panel Discussion on 2023 Medicare Advantage Benefits, offering diverse insights into the upcoming changes and benefits. The summit wrapped up with closing remarks, encapsulating a day rich in learning and networking for professionals in the field.
September 2022
September Member Meeting
October 2022
SAHU Coffee Chat (MEDICARE)
October Member Meeting
November 2022
November Member Meeting
River Oak Center For Children’s Turkey Dinner Drive 2022
December 2022
River Oak Center for Children’s Holiday Toy Drive 2022
A Letter from River Oak Center for Children
Dear SAHU,
Thank you for your support of the children served by River Oak with your generous donation of toys and gifts for this year’s Santa’s Workshop. Your donation is appreciated by not only the children and families but by the clinical team as they are able to provide support and resources for their families. We helped more than 200 families and 1000 children this year.
We are so fortunate to have such great community partners that allow us to create these memories and moments for our children and youth. It is partnerships like this that help River Oak further our work and create such wonderful community stewardship.
Despite the challenges our families have to overcome, we strive to provide them with comfort and resources. I can assure you that the impact of your gift will be felt by many children and families in need. The knowledge that you truly have made a difference should bring you a tremendous sense of satisfaction and pride. Thank you again for being such an integral part of improving the lives of the children, youth, and families we serve.
Sincerely,
Laurie Clothier
Chief Executive Officer
River Oak Center for Children
January 2023
January Member Meeting
NABIP Capitol Conference
What We Lobbied On:
Addressing the Cost of Care – Site Neutral rules to deter location-based gaming of coverage
Preserving and Strengthening Employer – Sponsored Health Coverage
Commonsense Reporting Act
Initiatives to innovate HSA – eligible plans
Opposition of penalties on employers for network requirements
What We Lobbied On To Improving Medicare:
Excluding licensed agents and brokers from burdensome marketing restrictions
Allowing COBRA to be treated as credible coverage
Observation status to be treated as inpatient status
New Part D open-enrollment period
Who We Met With in DC:
Kevin Kiley – Visit
Ami Bera – Visit
Doris Matsui – Visit
Josh Harder – Visit
Doug LaMalfa – Drop by
Tom McClintock –Drop by
February 2023
February Member Meeting
March 2023
March Coffee Chat
Ellevate Woman’s Leadership Summit
The Leadership Summit provides an opportunity for both current and aspiring female leaders in business to advance their career, personal growth, and increase impact and support in their teams as well as their industry.
Sacramento Association of Health Underwriters (SAHU) was proud to support our very own Cerrina Jenson, Ellevate Co-Founder and SAHU PAC chair who states, “Given that only 23% of executive leaders in our industry are women, but we make up 67% of entry level staff, Ellevate Foundation believes this annual leadership summit is a timely and critical opportunity to help bridge the gap and fast track both current and aspiring female leaders as their careers unfold.”
Another wonderfully successful event! Hopefully, you were there to see the big show, but if you couldn’t make it this year, here are a few of our favorite highlights and statistics.
380 People Attended 1,000 lbs of Crab 120 lbs of Shrimp 68 Auction Items Sold 10 Auction Items Donated 23 Deserts Donated/Sold
$20K Raised For The
American Cancer Society
On top of all the fun and games, thanks to our generous attendees, we were able to raise $20,000 for the American Cancer Society
April 2023
April Member Meeting
SAHU Vanguard Cornhole Tournament
We are so grateful to everyone who attended our first Cornhole Tournament!
Thanks to the amazing response we received, we are making this an annual event. We’ll see you on the court next year!
May 2023
CAHIP Capitol Conference
Members of SAHU attended the annual Capitol Summit held by California Agents & Health Insurance Professionals, reporting back a warning against the implementation of a state-run health care system.
“Addressing our elected legislators, whether in DC or Sacramento, is such an important part of our governmental system. Being able to meet face to face and let them know who we are, what we do and how we work to make things better is a fundamental part of citizenship in this country!”
– Dave Fear Jr., SAHU Legislative Chair
SAHU maintains a steadfast commitment to actively engage and participate in relevant legislative proceedings and keeping the public informed with accurate information.
SAHU Golf Tournament
The sun was shining, the greens were immaculate, and the camaraderie was off the charts. Each swing, chip, and putt was filled with laughter, challenge, and unforgettable memories. We reveled in the gorgeous backdrop of the Sierra Nevada foothills while enjoying the fresh, open air and the spirit of friendly competition. Our appreciation goes beyond words for every member, guest, and sponsor who joined us, adding their unique strokes to this grand tapestry of community and sportsmanship. A resounding thank you to all who made this event a hole-in-one experience! We can’t wait to see you all back next year for more drives, laughs, and incredible moments.
26 Teams
104 Golfers
50 Sponsor Reps
10 Volunteers
164 People in Total!
June 2023
June Member Meeting
NABIP Annual Convention
SAHU has made a remarkable impression at the NABIP Annual Convention.
First, our hard work, dedication, and innovation paid off with the prestigious Pacesetter Award. We are also honored Rosamaria Marrujo, 2022/2023 President, took home the esteemed Presidential Citation Award. Lastly, we had the honor of being recognized for creating a vibrant and informative online community with the Local Chapter Website Award.
These awards are a testament to the collective efforts of our entire membership. To our members, partners, and supporters – we extend our gratitude. A special thank you to the board members whose time and effort helped make this possible.
Sacramento Association of Health Underwriters
Pacesetter
Local Chapter Website
SAHU President 2022/2023, Rosamaria Marrujo
Presidential Citation
July 2023
July Member Meeting
2023-2024 Board Retreat
August 2023
SAHU Business & Medicare Expo 2023
The Sacramento Association of Health Underwriters (SAHU) proudly looks back on its 2023 Business & Medicare Expo as an unprecedented success. Garnering a remarkable turnout, the event saw over 300 registrants, reflecting the growing interest and commitment of professionals in the insurance industry. A highlight of the event was the Medicare Breakout session which was met with an overflowing audience, emphasizing its significance in today’s healthcare landscape. In line with SAHU’s dedication to professional development, the Expo offered 5 CE courses that provided valuable insights and knowledge enhancement for attendees.
The vibrant atmosphere was complemented by the presence of 30+ exhibitors who showcased the latest trends, products, and services in the industry. We owe a great deal of gratitude to our sponsors, each of whom played a pivotal role in making the Expo an unparalleled experience. We look forward to future collaborations and even more successful events!
September 2023
September Member Meeting
October 2023
October Member Meeting
November 2023
River Oak Center for Children’s
Turkey Dinner Drive 2023
Thanks to you SAHU donated $2,400 to River Oak Center for Children’s Turkey Dinner Drive!
Raised $2,400
Feeding Up To
32 Families
Thank You
SAHU Community!
December 2023
River Oak Center for Children’s Holiday Toy Drive 2023
“Once again, the Sacramento Community has come together to bring joy to the families who need it the most this holiday season. The Toy Drive was a huge success! Members of SAHU were able to meet many of the families that will be receiving the toys on behalf their children. The gratitude these mothers, fathers, and grandparents had as we wrapped up their toys for them was unbelievable. It’s an experience I will never forget. I am very grateful to be a small part of the kindhearted community that we are. Thank you for all your support! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at SAHU.”
– Andrew Garnett, Community Services Chair
As we close the chapter on an exceptional year, a heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to making it one of our most memorable. Here’s to the coming year, may it surpass even our highest expectations.
This Event Has Passed, but Here Are a Few of Our Favorite Highlights
2024 SAHU Business & Medicare Expo- Path to Success!
Sponsored by, Western Health Advantage
If you’re aiming to elevate your professional growth, expand your business, network with industry peers, and earn CE credits, this is the must-attend event of the year.
Join us for a jam-packed day filled with motivational keynote speakers, valuable learning opportunities through our CE courses, and engaging networking sessions, all while enjoying breakfast, and lunch!
Event Highlights:
Welcome and Membership Drive: Begin the day with a warm welcome from the SAHU President, followed by our membership drive and the induction of our new board members.
Keynote Speaker – Wendy Keneipp & Kevin Trokey: Learn from professional development coaches, Wendy and Kevin, with Q4intelligence, as they share expert insights from their motivational book, “The Salesperson’s Guide to Growing a Business,” a must-attend session for all professionals seeking to enhance their sales strategies! (CE).
Legislative Updates – Paul Roberts: Stay informed on the latest legislative changes affecting the healthcare industry with a comprehensive update from Paul Roberts (CE).
Panel Discussion on Provider Access and Prior Authorization Requirements: Gain valuable perspectives from a panel of medical group representatives, including Sean Atha, Ben Philips, Dr. Gabrielle Gaspar, and Dr. Christopher Swales, moderated by David Brabender (CE).
CE Courses: Attend a variety of engaging courses focused on essential topics such as the history of health insurance, compliant marketing strategies, the integration of AI tools for business growth, and coordination of veterans’ benefits with Medicare. Each session offers valuable insights and continuing education credits.
SAHU is dedicated to keeping our community and its members informed about the latest industry news and legislative changes.
Don’t miss this once a year opportunity to connect with fellow insurance professionals, share ideas, and discover new opportunities to elevate your business!
Agenda
7:30AM Registration Opens
Breakfast, sponsored by Landmark
8:00AM Welcome from the SAHU President
8:15AM Membership Drive & Induction of new board
8:30AM
KEYNOTE: Wendy Keneipp & Kevin Trokey, Q4Intelligence – The Salesperson’s Guide to Growing a Business (1 CE)
9:30AM Paul Roberts, Word & Brown – Legislative Updates (1 CE #390513)
10:30AM – Break
11:15AM Dr. Arif, Western Health Advantage – History of Health Insurance – Where We Have Been & Where We Are Going (1 CE #189200)
12:00PM to 12:30PM – Lunch
12:30PM to 1:00PM Katie Bain, Nonstop Health – Speaker Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan 101 for Mid to Large Groups
1:15PM PANEL: Medical Groups Representatives to Share Insight on Provider Access and Prior Authorization Requirements
Moderator – David Brabender
Panelist – River City Medical Group – Sean Atha, Sr. Vice President, Business & Program Development
Panelist – NIVANO Physicians – Ben Philips, Chief Administrative Officer
Panelist – Mercy Medical Group – Jason Spears, Chief Medical Officer
Panelist – Hill Physicians – Dr. Gabrielle Gaspar, CMO
Panelist – Mercy Medical Group – Jason Spears, CMO
Panelist – Woodland Clinic Medical Group – Dr. Christopher Swales, Family Physician & CFO
1:45PM to 2:00PM – Break
2:00PM to 3:00PM Antonette Vanasek, Vanasek Insurance – Revolutionizing Marketing and Content Creation: Harnessing AI Tools for Business Growth (1 CE)
3:00PM
Networking / Awards Ceremony
4:00PM – Event over
Breakout Room 9:30AM – 1:30PM
9:30AM to 10:30AM Dalia Sutton, Anthem – Compliant Marketing at Medicare Sales Events (1 CE #1335)
12:30PM to 1:30PM Veterans Benefit Coordination with Medicare (1 CE)
The Sacramento Association of Health Underwriters (SAHU) is proud to announce its esteemed board members for the 2023-24 term, showcasing a diverse and dedicated group of professionals committed to advancing the goals and mission of the organization.
Board Members and their Roles:
Helen Ornellas President
David Brabender President-Elect
Rosamaria Marrujo Past-President
Jacqueline Martinez Treasurer
Lauren Bayha Executive Director
Michele Mills Secretary
Michele Meder Awards Chair
Tamara Moreau Carrier Relations
Brad Wright Legislation Co-Chair
Telly Tasakos Membership Retention Chair
Adam Aguilar Professional Development Chair
Cerrina Jensen Political Action Committee Chair
Andrew Garnett Community Services Chair
Kyle Frantz Communications Chair
Antonette Vanasek Media Relations Chair
Dave Fear Jr. Legislative Co-Chair
Danny Langarica Vanguard Chair
Angie Caruso New Membership Chair
Andy Glenn Programs Chair
Renée Balcom Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Chair
Dalia Sutton Medicare Chair
Our Mission and Vision for the 2023-2024 Term
President Helen Ornellas shares her vision for the year, stating, “Our mission in 2023-2024 is mentorship and leadership. SAHU is looking for those who would like to make a difference in our chapter, in the industry, and their careers. We have started the Past Presidential Advisory Committee to provide insight, one on one mentorship, and guidance for those who are interested in leadership at the Chapter Level, State Level and National. Or lets us know how we can help you; we have the tools and people! 35 Years strong.”
SAHU Board Nominations
Joining the SAHU board can provide a wide range of benefits for both personal and professional growth. By becoming a board member, you can expand your network and connect with other industry professionals. Additionally, you can have a direct impact on the strategic direction and decision-making processes of the association. Serving on the board can also enhance your leadership and teamwork skills, as you work collaboratively with other members to achieve common goals. It’s an opportunity to give back to the community and make a positive impact on the industry, while also gaining valuable experience and building your resume.
Perhaps you or someone with whom you have served has the vision and the passion, both for the association and for the industry as a whole, to help lead SAHU in the coming years.
Let us work together to build a stronger, more vibrant SAHU community.
2023-2024 SAHU Board Members Induction
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For over 30 years, SAHU has worked to improve our members’ ability to meet the health, financial and retirement security needs of all Californians and Americans through education, advocacy, and professional development. For more information, please visit: sahu-ca.com.