Recognizing the industry's stars

PIANJ honored the industry's most dedicated professionals throughout the conference, including the Distinction of Professionalism Awards, presented at Monday's gala reception.

	Twice in two years! Stephen Tague, CPIA was named PIANJ Director of the Year.

Stephen Tague, CPIA, of Rockaway Township, was named PIANJ Director of the Year for the second year in a row.

An active member of PIANJ, Tague is conference chairperson of the Membership Services/Programs Committee and vice chair of the Northwest New Jersey Advisory Council. He also is a member of the PIANJ and New Jersey Young Insurance Professionals Recruitment Task force.

“Steve is a respected and outstanding insurance professional. His continued tireless commitment to PIANJ is to be applauded,” said Lynn. “This award from PIANJ commemorates his dedication and hard work.”

Kenneth J. Mattson Jr. received the PIANJ Community Service award for his leadership role on behalf of the Kristian M. Mattson Memorial Foundation and the Drug Abuse Resistance Education.

Lynn, Rygiel and Barbara Mattson. Mattson accepts the PIANJ Community Service award on behalf of her husband Kenneth J. Mattson Jr.

“Recognizing Kenny and his wonderful, selfless contributions to his community with this award, is a fitting tribute to this gentleman,” said Lynn. “This man is an inspiration to us all. I admire his strength and dedication.”

Due to the tragic death of his son, Mattson and his wife Barbara, helped create the Kristian M. Mattson Memorial Foundation in Wall. With the help of other volunteers, the foundation has raised more than $650,000, which was given to the Monmouth and Ocean County D.A.R.E. programs and Epiphany House, a halfway house for drug-addicted mothers with children. Mattson, along with his wife Barbara, lecture and counsel troubled kids and their parents.

	Lynn, Rygiel and PIANJ past President Louis Beckerman, CIC, CPCU.

PIANJ past President Louis Beckerman, CIC, CPCU, was named the association's Professional Agent of the Year. Beckerman was recognized for his excellence and achievement in insurance marketing and service, his personal commitment to professionalism and his contributions to PIA and the community.

“I am honored to receive this award from PIANJ for my work in the industry,” said Beckerman. “There is no greater recognition than to have your efforts acknowledged by your peers.”

Past President of PIANJ and PIA Management Services Inc., Eric Salfeety, CIC.

Past President of both PIANJ and PIA Management Services Inc., Eric Salfeety, CIC, received the Distinguished Insurance Service award, recognizing his service, dedicated leadership and his 30 years of work on behalf of the American agency system and PIANJ.

Salfeety served as chairman of the PIA Management Services Board for 2005-2007. PIA Management Services Inc. is the umbrella corporation that manages the Glenmont-based Professional Insurance Agents associations in New Jersey, New York state, Connecticut and New Hampshire.