The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) recently concluded its 117th Annual Meeting, a pivotal event that not only celebrated the achievements within the surety and fidelity industry but also set the stage for its future direction. Under the leadership of SFAA Chair Mike Keimig and SFAA President & CEO Ryan Work, the meeting underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and the adoption of emerging technologies to navigate the challenges and opportunities of today's market.
Highlighting the event was the recognition of Ralph Pulver with the 2025 Surety Platinum Award, the industry's highest individual honor, for his decades of leadership and service. The Surety Association of Ohio and the San Diego Surety Association were also honored with the 2025 Silver Surety Awards for their excellence in member engagement, education, and advocacy.
Keynote speaker Sam Jordan, from the Future Today Strategy Group, delivered a compelling presentation on the role of technology and data-driven strategies in shaping the future of the surety industry. The meeting also featured a discussion with U.S. Congressman Addison McDowell, focusing on national infrastructure priorities, highlighting the intersection of policy and industry growth.
The unanimous election of the 2025–2026 Board of Directors and Executive Committee marks a significant step in SFAA's commitment to leadership and innovation. The newly elected leaders, representing a broad spectrum of the industry, are poised to drive the association's vision forward, leveraging enhanced data analytics, research capabilities, and emerging technologies to increase impact.
This gathering not only reaffirmed the SFAA's role as a cornerstone of the surety and fidelity industry but also highlighted the collective effort required to address future challenges. The emphasis on technology, collaboration, and policy engagement underscores the evolving nature of the industry and its critical role in supporting the U.S. economy.
