Every spring, hundreds of CISRs submit nominations to become the next Outstanding CSR of the Year. Originally established to recognize exceptional account managers, CSRs, and individuals who distinguish themselves in their work and community, the award is steadily gaining more recognition within the insurance industry. Last year’s National Winner tells us how this award can help CSRs and account managers level up. 

2021 National Outstanding CSR of the Year: Darnella Rodriguez, CIC, CRM, CISR

Last year, The National Alliance celebrated the 30th anniversary of the award with Darnella Rodriguez, CISR, CIC, CRM. Darnella graduated with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Management then later saw a job posting for at an insurance agency in Houston. Darnella began her insurance career as an Account Manager, taking on the day-to-day CSR work such as renewals, new business claims, and loss runs. 

Darnella moved to Austin and began working as an Account Manager at Higginbotham in January 2019. She quickly moved up and became Unit Supervisor for commercial accounts. In that role, she oversees a large commercial team while maintaining her own book of business. Aside from everything an account manager does, the unit supervisor role supports the team, making sure that everything flows, and serves as a liaison between the team and producers. 

The Outstanding CSR Impact: What It can Do for Your Career

For Darnella, the Outstanding CSR of the year title has given her visibility with people outside of Higginbotham and within her agency. The award helps set her apart and motivates her to set high expectations among her colleagues and others in the industry. 

“I didn’t enter the competition at first because I didn’t think I was worthy. Winning has shown me that people have empowered me to work hard, earn designations, and to learn as much as I can to validate myself.” – Darnella Rodriguez, CIC, CRM, CISR

How to Apply

Individuals can nominate themselves or be nominated by coworkers who can remain anonymous if they would prefer. For their efforts, the nominator receives a $1,000 cash award if their nominee wins. Criteria for nominating an exceptional account manager or CSR can be found at https://www.riskeducation.org/outstanding-csr-of-the-year/.Once nominated, candidates will fill out a candidate form that outlines a holistic review of their contributions to the industry.