Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA) Celebrates Leadership at 17th Annual Board Meeting and Benefits Roadshow in Philadelphia
Camden, NJ – December 20, 2024 – The Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA) concluded its 17th Annual Board Meeting and Benefits Roadshow in Philadelphia on November 21, 2024. The event was marked by strategic planning sessions to enhance member and corporate partner experiences, showcasing a commitment to staying at the forefront of the industry.
The meeting provided a dynamic platform for exchanging innovative ideas, fostering collaboration, and unparalleled business networking opportunities that left attendees enthused about the Association’s future direction. The HVBA remains a trailblazer in the health and voluntary benefits sector, primarily focusing on delivering education, news, and the most up-to-date information and resources to its subscribers and members while connecting with its community through networking and innovative partnerships.
Among the event’s highlights were the acknowledgments and honors awarded to outstanding partners and board members who have pivotal roles in elevating the Association’s stature and creating valuable experiences for current and future members.
2024 HVBA Leadership Award Sponsor
We sincerely thank Aflac for sponsoring this year’s award ceremony, Leadership awards, and Hall of Fame award.
The Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA) is pleased to recognize the following professionals for their exceptional contributions during 2024:
| Executive Board Member of the Year Jake Velie, CPT Chairman & CEO, National Integrative Health Vice Chair, President & Editor-In-Chief, HVBA | Advisory Board Member of the Year Dennis J. Connor III, CVBS Territory Sales Manager, Colonial Life |
| Hall of Fame Inductee Don Cahalan, CVBS CEO, Armhr Managing Director – Founder, Biggin Solutions | Partner of the Year Trinity Oaks |
| Leadership Award Dan Robinson, CVBS President & CEO, Synolo | Leadership Award Donald A. Rowe, RHU Vice President, Employee Benefits, Legal Club |
| Innovation Award Lee Stokes CEO, Fidelity Enrollment Services | HVBA Team Member of the Year Suzanne Walicki COO, National Integrative Health COO, HVBA |
| Sponsor of the Year Mike Hirschberg Division Sales Manager, MassMutual |
Rob Shestack, Chairman & CEO of the HVBA, praises these award recipients: “These exceptional individuals have played a pivotal role in HVBA’s growth throughout 2024, fostering enhanced collaboration and networking opportunities for members, corporate sponsors, and partners. A heartfelt congratulations to Don Cahalan on his induction into the HVBA Hall of Fame, joining an esteemed group of industry leaders.”
Mike Hirschberg shared his gratitude, saying: “On behalf of MassMutual, I am thrilled to accept the award of Sponsor of The Year from the HVBA. MassMutual is a proud sponsor of the HVBA and their mission to raise awareness of the advantages of Health and Voluntary Benefits have for employees and employers alike.”
As we celebrate the achievements of 2024, the Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA) eagerly anticipates the opportunities that 2025 will bring. We remain dedicated to excellence and take pride in honoring the hardworking efforts of our board and team members in the year ahead.
Click here to learn more about HVBA’s Annual Leadership Awards, including past recipients, eligibility, and award sponsorship opportunities.
For more information about the Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA) and its initiatives, please visit www.vbassociation.com.
About Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA): The Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA) is a leading organization that provides valuable resources, networking opportunities, and the latest health and voluntary benefits sector information. Comprised of a diverse group of professionals, the association is committed to elevating industry standards and fostering collaboration among its members, corporate sponsors, and partners.
Press Contact:
Sarah Hunt
Senior Vice President of Administration
shunt@vbassociation.com