The California Insurance Wholesalers Association (CIWA) has announced changes to its executive board and welcomed two new members to its board of directors.

The transitions, effective immediately following CIWA’s board meeting on Jan. 19, reflect the organization’s ongoing leadership rotation and commitment to strategic direction in the surplus lines insurance industry.

Yana Connors of CK Specialty has been named CIWA’s new president, transitioning from her previous role as vice president. Garett Kaneko of Amwins moves into the vice president position, having served as treasurer.

Yana Connors was recognized as one of the winners for Women Leaders in Insurance in the USA. Read the Elite Women special report here.

Sarah Sloan of Paragon Insurance Holdings takes over as treasurer, stepping up from her previous role as secretary. Aimee Bernadicou of Wholesure assumes the role of secretary, moving from her position as a director. John Donahue, also of Wholesure, transitions to immediate past president and will remain on the board.

In addition to the executive transitions, CIWA has added two new members to its board of directors. David Klayman of Seneca, the association’s Platinum Sponsor, and Jack Else of Nationwide were formally installed during CIWA’s Annual Meeting on Jan. 20 in Indian Wells, California.

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“These changes reflect CIWA’s commitment to strong leadership and strategic direction,” said Donahue. He expressed confidence in Connors’ ability to guide the association, stating he was proud to pass the leadership role to her.

Connors expressed her focus on the organization’s mission.

“With the support of our dedicated board and members, I look forward to advancing our mission and furthering CIWA's impact in the industry,” Connors said.

CIWA’s board members serve two-year terms, with executive positions rotating as part of a structured leadership track. The association continues to represent wholesale brokers, carriers, and other supporting entities in California’s surplus lines market.

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