President's Remarks - Spring 2026

Spring is a season of renewal and growth—and what better time to invest in your professional development by pursuing an IRES designation?

Whether you are early in your career or looking to expand your expertise, IRES offers a range of designation pathways tailored to your goals. Many of these designations begin with the Market Conduct Management (MCM®) designation, which serves as an excellent foundation for continued advancement.

From there, members may pursue the Accredited Insurance Examiner (AIE®) designation, with the opportunity to cross-train and earn the Certified Insurance Examiner (CIE®) designation. For those with a particular interest in compliance and enforcement related to the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, the Behavioral Health Parity Auditor (BHPA®) program offers specialized coursework. Additionally, members focused on consumer-facing roles may find the Certified Insurance Consumer Service Representative (CICSR®) designation especially valuable—notably, this credential does not require the MCM® as a prerequisite.

In April, I had the privilege of attending the IRES Foundation School in Charlotte, North Carolina—a wonderful setting that offered rich opportunities for networking and collaborative learning among regulators and industry professionals alike. I was joined by Craig Leonard, Chair of this year's Career Development Seminar (CDS), and together we extended an open invitation to insurance industry personnel to participate as panelists at this year's CDS in Pittsburgh. The experience reinforced a principle I hold dear: that meaningful progress is achieved when all voices are heard and perspectives are shared in pursuit of common goals.

As the days grow longer and the season brightens, I encourage each of you to embrace this spirit of renewal—and reignite your passion for lifelong learning.

Warm regards,

Mary Nugent

President, IRES

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