The Risk & Insurance Education Alliance mourns the loss of two remarkable leaders and cherished colleagues, Dr. Victor Puleo and Kevin Brady, who both passed away last week. Their contributions to the risk and insurance industry, as well as to education and mentorship, have left an indelible mark on our community.
Kevin Brady, CIC
Kevin Brady was a Regional Director for ARTEX Risk Solutions, a division of Arthur J. Gallagher Co., where he specialized in the development and marketing of captive insurance programs. With expertise spanning group, rent, segregated cell, single-parent captives, and program business, Kevin was a trusted authority in the field.
Kevin earned his CIC designation in 1988 and devoted much of his career to advancing professional education. As a National Faculty member of the Society of Certified Insurance Counselors, he was a sought-after speaker at Commercial Casualty Institutes and James K. Ruble Seminars. He also contributed as a National Faculty member of the Certified Risk Managers (CRM) program, where he shared his expertise in risk financing and insurance coverage.
Kevin’s dedication to the industry extended to his nine years of service on the Society of Certified Insurance Counselors Board of Governors, including a term as Chairman, from 2008 to 2013.
Dr. Victor Puleo, Jr., Ph.D., CIC, CFP
Dr. Victor Puleo served as the Davey Chair of Risk Management and Insurance in the Lacy School of Business at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana. A distinguished scholar and educator, Dr. Puleo earned his doctorate in risk management and insurance at Florida State University. His academic work has been published in esteemed journals such as the Journal of Insurance Issues, Risk Management and Insurance Review, Managerial Finance, and Best’s Review.
At Butler University, Dr. Puleo spearheaded transformative programs through the Davey Risk Management and Insurance Program. His leadership brought life to initiatives such as the first student-run captive insurance company and an elite chapter of Gamma Iota Sigma. Under his guidance, students gained unparalleled experiential education through internships, case studies, and industry engagement, helping Butler’s College of Business earn national acclaim.
Dr. Puleo was a Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP), and served as a National Faculty Member and Educational Consultant for the Society of Certified Insurance Counselors. His previous tenure at the University of Central Arkansas saw him fostering the first University Associate Certified Insurance Counselor (UACIC) designation, a program designed to prepare students for professional success in the insurance and risk management field.
Victor served on the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance Research Academy Board from 2016–2022 and was Chair in 2019 and 2020. During his service, his friendship, educational insights, and support were irreplaceable.
Dr. Puleo’s passion for education and innovation will continue to inspire future generations of industry professionals. His mentorship, vision, and dedication will be deeply missed.
A Legacy of Excellence
Dr. Victor Puleo and Kevin Brady exemplified the highest standards of professionalism, leadership, and generosity. Both men were passionate educators and mentors who dedicated their careers to advancing the risk and insurance industry. Their legacy is not only reflected in their professional achievements but also in the lives they touched and the careers they helped shape.
We extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. Dr. Puleo and Kevin Brady will always be remembered for their profound impact on the industry and their unwavering commitment to excellence.
