American Historian Daniel Boorstin said;
"Education is learning what you didn’t even know you didn’t know"
As CPCU’s, part of our lifelong mission should be education. As time goes on, the pace of change in our insurance world continues to excel. Cyber Liability, Uber, Bio Hazards, TRR…I can go on and on. In order to keep up with the changes and sincerely striving "to ascertain and understand the needs of others" it takes continuous learning.
As CPCU’s, we technically have no requirement for continued education like other designations have. Once a CPCU, always a CPCU. Nor am I suggesting otherwise. However as part of our professional creed, we should have that requirement of ourselves. We hold ourselves as CPCU’s to carry one of if not the most professional designation in our industry. As such, continuous learning is a must…that’s how I see it anyway.
Last month, Kelly Parker introduced us to the Masters Program for Risk Management and Insurance at Olivet College. We are also fortunate to have in the State of Michigan 3 Insurance/ Risk Management Undergraduate Programs (Olivet, Davenport, Ferris). Every year, the Western Michigan Chapter awards two $500 scholarships to two worthy individuals. In recognition and support of continued education, our Chapter is now opening up one of these two scholarships to those individuals enrolled in the Masters Program. The other scholarship will continue to be awarded to an undergrad at one of the three above mentioned programs. All interested members/ students should contact our Scholarship Committee for the parameters and qualifications needed to be considered.
Take a class, read a book, have a coverage debate….all are forms learning. To those who feel they are up for a challenge, consider the Masters Program. Another famous historian (Ben Franklin) said "An investment in knowledge pays the best return". Go learn something you didn’t know and collect a little interest today.
Have a great February!!
Jim Heyboer