06/25/2007
CONTACT: Kevin Hughes, 317-638-4447 or Mark Rickel, 614-221-4107
INDIANAPOLIS -- The National Federation of Independent Business, America's leading small-business advocacy group, today named James Gislason of Vincennes its "Small-Business Champion of the Year" for the state of Indiana. Each year, NFIB recognizes a small-business owner in each of the 50 states with the "Small-Business Champion" award for their achievements in business and their outstanding support of entrepreneurship.
For more than 30 years, Jim has worked with the United Insurance Services, Inc., serving as the company's president since 1990. Throughout his career, he has been very involved with business/insurance advocacy groups, political campaigns and community-based organizations generously giving his time, creativity and financial support.
"Jim's commitment, hard work and keen insight on small-business issues have made him an invaluable leader for the NFIB/Indiana program. Whenever there is an issue that we need to better understand or to engage our membership, Jim is one of the members we call first," Kevin Hughes, state director of NFIB/Indiana said. "We are fortunate to have someone that not only understands not only how important small business is to our economy, but recognizes how critical it is that people get involved and that one person can make a positive impact."
In 1978, Gislason joined NFIB and immediately became active in small-business causes, helping to lobby for and against insurance legislation that would impact small business. Over the years, he has become widely respected as an insurance policy expert and has been a tremendous resource to NFIB/Indiana. In 1997, Gislason became a member of the NFIB/Indiana Leadership Council and served as its chair from 2005 until he stepped down earlier this year.
In addition to his work and involvement with NFIB, Gislason has been an active member of the Professional Insurance Agents Association, serving on its board of directors for six years and as the vice president in 1987. In 2002, the organization named him "Indiana Insurance Agent of the Year." Gislason has also been involved in community organizations such as the Rotary club, serving as club secretary, vice president, club president, district secretary, district governor and delegate to Council on Legislation. He has also sat on the boards of several organizations including, the Knox County Community Foundation, where he served as president. He also serves on the board of the Community Foundation as board chairman and a board member of the Christian Educational Foundation.
"Ever since I joined NFIB, I've had a passion for working not just for my benefit, but for other small businesses, their owners, their employees and their families," Gislason said. "I have a passion for making a difference, for being involved, and I appreciate the opportunities and access NFIB gives me to make things happen. To be recognized for doing something I love is a wonderful honor."
Gislason can be reached for further comment at 812-882-3560.
