From: Captive International
The insurance and risk management industry has long been dominated by traditional hierarchical structures, often reflecting a lack of diversity in both leadership and decision-making processes. However, as society progresses, so too must the industries that serve it.
That was the message from a panel discussion about diversity, which took place at the annual CICA conference, taking place this week in Tucson, Arizona.
The panel highlighted the necessity of diverse leadership, the power of varied perspectives, and the role of individual responsibility in fostering inclusive work environments.
Mary Ellen Moriarty, vice president of property & casualty at EIIA/College Insurance Company, referenced the formation of College Insurance Company in the 1960s, a time when historically black colleges and universities (HBCU) were denied insurance coverage due to the prevailing political and social climate. In response, five institutions affiliated with the United Methodist Church united to create their own insurance solutions, showing how resilience and collective effort can overcome systemic discrimination and pave the way for a more inclusive industry, she reminded attendees.
Reflecting on her own journey in the insurance field since 1977, Moriarty noted how early career paths for women were often limited to administrative roles, while leadership positions remained male-dominated. However, her experience with HBCU-led insurance initiatives broadened her understanding of different strategic approaches, reinforcing the importance of diverse perspectives in effective decision-making.
Melissa Hollingsworth, deputy chief risk officer at the Los Angeles Unified School District, reinforced the importance of sustained action. She shared her own experiences in navigating a male-dominated industry for over 25 years and expressed her admiration for initiatives such as CICA’s Amplify Women, which champion female leadership in insurance. Hollingsworth encouraged professionals to take personal stands where possible, whether through consumer choices or continuous advocacy within their organisations.
