The Beginning of a Movement

In 1976, a visionary group of women insurance professionals—including Cecilia Norat, Josephine Hoey, Ruth Curry, Barbara Brown, Katja Anderson, Myra Tobin, and Dorothy Coombs, —came together to form what would become the Association of Professional Insurance Women (APIW). Alongside Cecilia helped establish the Committee of Professional Insurance Women, with a mission to elevate women in the industry.

One of the group’s first initiatives was a cocktail reception on June 25, 1976, honoring Mary Lowry, one of the first women to achieve underwriter status. With over 42 years in the industry, Mary was a trailblazer in special risk underwriting and had mentored many future leaders. She was presented with a special plaque by John Lennon, Deputy Superintendent of Insurance of New York, and received congratulatory messages from Senator Jacob Javits, Governor Hugh Carey, and Mayor Abraham Beame.

In her acceptance speech, Mary Lowry shared a powerful vision for the future of women in insurance:

“Division of roles by sex is being put aside so that skill and ability are the criteria for advancement... I hope to see more maturation of the business so that more and more women will be enabled to rise to decision-making levels.”


Her words continue to inspire APIW’s mission today.

A Commitment to Education and Recognition

At that inaugural event, Cecilia Norat announced the group’s dual purpose: to recognize outstanding women in insurance and to support students through scholarships. Proceeds from the reception were donated to the College of Insurance’s Scholarship Fund—now part of St. John’s University School of Risk Management.

In 1977, Elizabeth Hill was honored as Woman of the Year.

She ran a school that prepared candidates for the broker’s exam and was instrumental in opening doors for women through the independent broker route—often the only path available to women at the time.

Her work helped bring countless women into the industry.

Expanding the Legacy: 1977 and Beyond

In 1977, APIW honored Elizabeth Hill as its second Woman of the Year. Elizabeth was a trailblazer in her own right—running a school that prepared candidates for the broker’s exam, which at the time was an all-day endeavor. Her efforts opened doors for countless women, especially through the independent broker route, which was often the only viable entry point into the industry for women. Many of these brokerages were family-run businesses that welcomed women as professionals when larger companies would not.

As the industry evolved, so did APIW. What began as a small committee recognizing individual excellence and supporting scholarships has grown into a comprehensive professional organization grounded in four strategic pillars that guide everything we do today:

Learning & Development

We invest in the future of the industry by offering professional development programs, leadership panels, and access to a robust job bank and membership directory—ensuring our members are equipped to lead in a dynamic marketplace.

Connectivity & Mentorship

With over 60 events annually, both virtual and in-person, APIW fosters meaningful relationships through regional networking, mentorship programs, and sponsorship opportunities that support women at every stage of their careers.

Inclusion & Belonging

Recognized for our leadership in diversity, APIW champions equity through inclusive programming, diverse board representation, and expert-led discussions that elevate underrepresented voices and perspectives.

Giving Back

Staying true to our roots, we continue to support the next generation through annual scholarships and charitable initiatives that reflect our commitment to service and community impact.

A National Network of Empowerment

Networks