The Business Insurance Alonzo Herndon Award recognizes an individual dedicated to supporting diversity and inclusion efforts in the insurance industry.

The Alonzo Herndon Award is named in honor of an extraordinary businessman who, more than 100 years ago, founded what would become the Atlanta Life Insurance Company, one of the United States’ largest and most successful black-owned businesses.

Mr. Herndon was born into slavery in 1858 and worked as a laborer from a young age. With almost no schooling and no money, his perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit drove him to great success, opening service businesses in Atlanta that were joined to form a landmark company. Today, the Alonzo Herndon Foundation honors his legacy and supports programs and policies in keeping with his vision.

The annual award, which is also made in observance of Juneteenth, recognizes an individual who exemplifies Mr. Herndon’s courage, leadership and extraordinary good will toward others, bolstering their progress and success.

Nominations are now open through June 3, 2022. The Business Insurance D&I Institute will announce the Alonzo Herndon Award winner at our annual D&I Conference in August, 2022.

An ideal nominee would meet one or more of the following criteria:

• An individual who has made a significant, industry-wide impact on furthering DEI efforts.
• An individual who has consistent commitment to promoting DEI through raising awareness, implementing programs and mentoring others.
• An individual who sets an example as a person of integrity, vision and dedication.
• An individual who has acts as an advocate and participant in industry events that promote DEI.

If you have any questions about the process, please contact Julie Ford at jford@businessinsurance.com.