PHOTO L-R: Christopher Slocum, CIC, RI Community Service Agent of the Year, Nathan Edge, RI Young Agent of the Year, Monica Viera, RI Customer Service Agent of the Year, and Jason Gruczka, RI Company Representative of the Year.
The Independent Insurance Agents of Rhode Island (IIARI) is proud to recognize the outstanding professionals whose leadership, service, and dedication continue to strengthen Rhode Island’s independent insurance community.
During InsureCon 2026, we honored five individuals whose contributions have made a meaningful impact on our industry, their organizations, and the communities they serve. These award recipients exemplify the professionalism, integrity, and commitment that define independent agents and their partners across the Ocean State.
2026 Rhode Island Legislator of the Year
Representative Christopher R. Blazejewski
Speaker of the House
IIARI is pleased to recognize Representative Christopher R. Blazejewski as the 2026 Rhode Island Legislator of the Year. As Speaker of the House, Representative Blazejewski has demonstrated thoughtful leadership and a commitment to public service. His willingness to engage with the insurance industry and understand the issues affecting independent agents and the consumers they serve has helped foster productive dialogue and informed policymaking.
2026 Rhode Island Company Representative of the Year
Jason Gruczka
Progressive Insurance
Jason Gruczka is this year’s recipient of the Rhode Island Company Representative of the Year Award. Through his professionalism, responsiveness, and strong relationships with independent agents, Jason has consistently gone above and beyond to support agency partners and contribute to their success.
2026 Rhode Island Customer Service Representative of the Year
Monica Viera
Superior Insurance Partners
The Customer Service Representative of the Year Award recognizes individuals who embody excellence in client service, and Monica Viera exemplifies that standard every day. Her dedication to meeting clients’ needs, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering exceptional service make her an invaluable asset to her agency and the customers she serves.
2026 Rhode Island Young Agent of the Year
Nathan Edge
A.N. Nunes Agency, Inc.
Nathan Edge has distinguished himself as an emerging leader within the independent agency system. Through his enthusiasm, professional involvement, and dedication to the future of the industry, he represents the next generation of insurance leaders who will continue to advocate for and advance the independent agency channel.
2026 Rhode Island Community Service Agent of the Year
Christopher Slocum, CIC
The Slocum Agency
Christopher Slocum, CIC, is being recognized for his exceptional commitment to giving back. Through volunteerism, civic engagement, and community leadership, he has demonstrated that independent agents play an important role not only as trusted advisors, but also as dedicated community partners.
Please join IIARI in congratulating these deserving recipients. Their accomplishments reflect the very best of our profession and serve as an inspiration to all who work to strengthen Rhode Island’s independent insurance community.
We thank each of them for their leadership, service, and commitment, and we look forward to celebrating their continued success in the years ahead.