The Risk & Insurance Education Alliance today announced the recipients of its prestigious 2026 Distinguished Faculty Award, recognizing five exceptional educators who have demonstrated outstanding commitment, expertise, and service in advancing professional education in the risk and insurance industry.
The 2026 Distinguished Faculty Award honorees are:
- Dr. John Bratton, CIC, CPCU, ASLI, ARM
- Chuck Hembree, CIC, CRM
- Allen Messer, CIC, CPCU
- Rich Rudolph, CPCU, ARM, APA, ARP, AIAF, AAM
- Cathy Trischan, CIC, CRM, CPCU, ARM, AAI, AU, CRIS, MLIS, TRIP
“Each of these award recipients brings exceptional insight, experience, and heart to their work,” said Jay Williams, CIC, CRM, CRIS, MLIS, AIP, AAI, ACSR, Head of Faculty & Academic Development. “Their dedication to teaching lifts the quality of our programs and inspires both new and experienced professionals across the industry.”
“These five honorees exemplify the highest standards of professional education,” said William J. Hold, MBA, CRM, CISR, CEO of the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance. “Their contributions strengthen not only our organization, but the entire risk and insurance profession. It’s a privilege for us to honor them.”
The Distinguished Faculty Award reflects the Alliance’s longstanding commitment to recognizing excellence in professional education. These honorees join a legacy of educators who have shaped the industry through their expertise, leadership, and dedication to lifelong learning.
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About the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance
The Risk & Insurance Education Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing professional development across the risk and insurance industry. Through nationally recognized designation and certification programs, continuing education, and thought‑leadership initiatives, the Alliance equips professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in an evolving industry landscape.
