BOONE N.C. — The North Carolina Surplus Lines Association (NCSLA) recently presented a $100,000 check to Appalachian State University’s Brantley Risk and Insurance Center in support of student programming, scholarships and travel.

Danielle Wade, a Boone native, chair of the NCSLA Stamping Office and chief operating officer at Jackson Sumner & Associates, presented the check to Walker College of Business Dean Heather Hulburt Norris and Brantley Center Director Dr. David Marlett on Appalachian’s campus last month.

“The North Carolina Surplus Lines Association is proud to support such a great program,” said Wade. “As the talent gap continues to grow with the ever-increasing retirement of baby boomers, we feel our investment in the future workforce of our industry is important, and we look forward to seeing where these students end up in our industry.”

Through cocurricular programs teaching complementary skills such as interviewing, resume building and networking skills, the Brantley Center offers Appalachian students majoring in risk management and insurance (RMI) versatile skills with which to excel in the industry.

“(NCSLA’s) contributions help us recruit the best and brightest talent to the industry through their innovative High Performer Scholarships and funds the annual London and Bermuda trips for our International Insurance Markets class students,” Marlett said.

“The NCSLA truly makes transformational educational experiences possible for our students, which inspires them to become the next generation of industry leaders, both locally and globally.”

About the Brantley Risk and Insurance Center

The Brantley Risk and Insurance Center in Appalachian State University's Walker College of Business enhances the academic experience by providing space and staff to assist risk management and insurance majors with networking, job placement preparation and contact with faculty members outside the classroom. It provides students opportunities to participate in professional designation and licensing programs, and invites industry leaders to participate in classes and speak to student organizations. It also fosters research and faculty development, assists the insurance industry in the design and delivery of continuing education programs and helps educate the public about the insurance industry. App State is designated a Global Center of Insurance Excellence by the International Insurance Society. Learn more about the Brantley Risk and Insurance Center at https://insurance.appstate.edu.

About the Walker College of Business

The Walker College of Business at Appalachian State University delivers transformational educational experiences that prepare and inspire students to be ethical, innovative and engaged business leaders who positively impact their communities, both locally and globally. The college places emphasis on international experiences, sustainable business practices, entrepreneurial programs and real-world applications with industry. Enrolling nearly 5,000 students, including more than 4,500 undergraduates across 11 majors, the Walker College of Business has the highest full-time undergraduate enrollment in the University of North Carolina System. App State’s Walker College is accredited by AACSB International — the premier global accrediting body for business schools. Learn more about App State’s Walker College of Business at https://business.appstate.edu.

About Appalachian State University

As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, cost-effective education. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu.

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